The IRONMAN Calella-Barcelona celebrates its tenth anniversary with 3.000 triathletes and new features
On October 6, the IRONMAN Calella-Barcelona will celebrate its tenth edition, consolidating itself as one of the most emblematic events in Europe.
With more than 3.000 triathletes registered from 91 countries, this edition is shaping up to be one of the most special, not only for its festive atmosphere, but also for the modifications introduced to the route, designed to improve the experience of the participants.
Changes and new features for the 2024 edition
One of the main novelties this year is the elimination of the IRONMAN 70.3 event, in order to focus all efforts on the full distance of 3,8 km swimming, 180,2 km cycling and a 42,2 km marathon.
This change is a response to the desire to return to the roots of long-distance triathlon and offer athletes a more authentic experience. In addition, this year it will count towards the National Ranking of Medium and Long Distance Triathlon.
The new circuit, designed specifically for the occasion, promises strong emotions.
The cycling segment, which is characterized by being fast and flat, will take athletes closer than ever to the city of Barcelona, traveling along the N-II highway and accumulating only 750 meters of elevation gain.
The running circuit has also been modified to add a section that runs through the picturesque streets of Calella, where the support of the public and the energy of the locals will make the triathletes feel the heat of the competition.
The day will conclude under the iconic Calella Lighthouse, where a spectacular finish line is expected, with stands full of supporters cheering on the triathletes who complete this tough test.
This finish under the lighthouse has been rated as one of the best finish lines in Europe.
International participation and a successful registration
With more than 3.250 triathletes registered, the IRONMAN Calella-Barcelona has once again demonstrated its international appeal.
Nearly 90% of the participants are foreigners, with the United Kingdom leading the list with 27,2% of the registered athletes. Also in the top ranks are France (11,8%), Germany (5,3%), Ireland (5,1%) and Belgium (4,1%). In addition, the United States contributes 4% of the athletes.
On the other hand, the event will have the participation of 553 triathlon clubs, which represents a significant increase compared to previous editions.
As for the first-time triathletes, 83% of those registered will be participating in an IRONMAN for the first time, while the remaining 17% are repeat entrants who did not want to miss this very special edition.
Female participation has also seen growth, reaching 15% this year, exceeding figures from previous years.
Ten years of history and great moments
Since its first edition in 2014, the IRONMAN Calella-Barcelona has seen some of the best triathletes in the world cross its finish line. Unforgettable moments such as the victory of Patrick Nilsson in 2016, the record mark of Laura Philip in 2018, or the stellar performances of Jan Frodeno y Javier Gómez Noya, have consolidated this test as one of the favorites on the international calendar.
One of the most important milestones occurred in 2019, when Florian Angert He set the record for the race with a time of 7 hours, 45 minutes and 5 seconds. This year, with the new circuit, professional triathletes are expected to return to Calella beach, with the possibility of setting new records.