If I had $1 for every time someone asked me “What race should I do for my first Ironman?” I would be out riding my bike and not writing this newsletter, because I would be a very rich person indeed.

Deciding which race to do for your first (or 10th Ironman) is a big decision. There are many factors to consider.

Course type (ocean or lake swim, hilly or flat bike, looped or out-and-back run)
Time of year (weather and training considerations)
Location (travel, logistics, altitude)
Support and atmosphere (spectator-friendly)

In fact, I wrote an article for IRONMAN about this very topic: How to Pick the Perfect Race For YOU that breaks it down into greater detail.

That gave me an idea…

What if there was a tool that could narrow down the options and help you pick a race that suits you best?

Thus, the IRONMAN Race Selector 2000 was born! (You can thank my husband for the name)

Included in this post:

Factors to consider when picking an Ironman.
Find Your Ideal Ironman: Race Selector Quiz
Breakdown of America’s IRONMAN races by course profile, weather, ect.
*Triple Threat Life Club members get access to the Race Comparison Table, Toughest/Unique Course Features Guide, and links to every Race Guide I’ve written for IRONMAN and Triathlete Magazine.

But first, a bit about me. This blog is what I do for fun (and to help fellow athletes). Professionally, (ie. what I get paid to do) is write for different magazines, companies, and brands.

Over the past 3 years, I’ve written 50+ articles for IRONMAN, the majority being “Master the Course” race guides and “Destination” tourism race guides. While I haven’t done all these races myself, I interview pro athletes, age-groupers, and coaches who have, so they can provide first-person accounts and great insight. I’ve also written Triathlete Magazine’s “Best Races” Series for the past few years.

*I’ll put the links at the bottom so you can check them out.

Factors to consider when picking an Ironman

Course type is one of the most important factors to consider when selecting an Ironman. If you’re going to cover 140.6 miles, you want to make sure it’s on a course that suits your strengths.

Think about what you enjoy doing most as an athlete. Are you a strong swimmer who doesn’t mind ocean waves? Are you a tentative swimmer who prefers a calm lake or river with a current assist?

Do you enjoy a fast, flat bike course? Or do you like some rolling hills? Do you prefer runs with loops or an out-and-back design?

Experience level is another consideration as some courses are better suited for first-timers, while others are definitely more challenging.

Another factor to consider is the time of year when the race will be held. Although the weather on race day is a consideration, more important is what the weather will be like during the bulk of your training. For example, if you pick an early season race like IRONMAN Texas, know that the bulk of your training will take place over the holidays and in wintertime. If you pick a late-season race like IRONMAN Florida, know that you’re going to be logging the most miles during the heat of the summer.

Another consideration is travel. If a race isn’t located within driving distance, you must plan for how to get your bike to the event. Traveling via plane includes more logistics and can introduce an added layer of complexity.

Also, think about availability of support. Do you have friends doing the same race? If so, you have built-in training buddies. If not, expect to log a lot of solo miles.

Does this race take place at a time when your family and friends can attend? Having a friendly face out on course can make all the difference when you’re in the late stages of an Ironman. Also, some courses are more spectator-friendly than others.

These are all factors to consider when selecting your next Ironman triathlon.

Find Your Ideal Ironman: Race Selector Quiz

Not sure where to start? Take this quick quiz to find your race match. Answer the questions below. Keep track of (A, B, C, or D), and check out your recommended race category at the end.

1. What type of swimming do you prefer?

A) River
B) I want to stay within sight of shore at all times
C) Lake swim
D) I can handle anything!

2. What kind of bike course do you enjoy?

A) Fast and flat
B) Rolling hills with some climbs to break things up
C) A hilly course with challenging climbs and descents
D) A course with beautiful scenery

3. What’s your ideal run terrain?

A) A flat course
B) A mix of rolling hills and flat sections
C) I love running hills!
D) I want a run course with a view

4. What’s your ideal race climate?

A) Warm, mostly stable conditions
B) Cool in morning, warm in the day
C) Cooler, but unpredictable with rain
D) Tropical, hot and humid

5. When do you want to race?

A) Open to all times
B) Fall
C) Summer
D) Spring to fall

6. What’s your experience racing IRONMAN?

A) This is my first IRONMAN
B) I’ve done a few 70.3 and/or an IRONMAN
C) I’ve done a few IRONMAN, and I’m looking for a new challenge
D) I’d love a destination race

Tally up how many times you answered A, B, C, or D, then check out your recommended race category.

Mostly A’s → Flat & Fast Races
Mostly B’s → Rolling Terrain
Mostly C’s → Historic & Hilly Races
Mostly D’s → Unique Challenges

*Disclaimer: Races are added, discontinued, and courses change periodically. This guide (including elevation gain) is based on available IRONMAN data. Visit IRONMAN’s website for the latest, up-to-date information. This guide is for American-based IM. If you enjoy it, we can expand overseas or even do a 70.3 version! Also, I’m not a representative of IRONMAN, and the opinions contained herein are wholly my own.

Mostly A's: Flat & Fast Races

These races are ideal for athletes who prefer a fast and relatively flat course with minimal elevation change. Also, these are great options for first-timers or those looking for a PR.

IRONMAN Florida (Panama City Beach, FL.)

Me at IM Florida in 2023 (my first Ironman)!

Swim: Ocean swim in the Gulf of Mexico
Bike: Fast, “flattish” course on a single loop course.
Run: Flatter than flat
Spectator Support: Spectator-friendly swim and excellent crowd support on the run

Panama City Beach is the place for a late season race-cation. A flat and fast course with white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this race is a favorite of first-timers and PR-seekers alike. The two-lap swim in the Gulf of Mexico features an Australian exit under Russell-Fields Pier. Typically wetsuit legal, the ocean can be unpredictable with current and waves.

The unique single-lap bike course is “flattish” with some rolling hills for roughly 1,609-2,000 ft. of elevation gain. Because the course runs along the intercostal, expect to encounter wind at some point during the day. The run course is flatter than flat (102 ft. of gain) in two loops so you get to see family and friends four times before you finish at Pier Park under the Christmas lights.

*Fun Fact: This is the longest consecutively running IRONMAN in North America and often has a pro race associated with it.

Check out my race report from 2023 Ironman Florida!

IRONMAN Texas (The Woodlands, TX)

Swim: Unique, point-to-point swim in Lake Woodlands
Bike: Flat, fast course with wind and no shade
Run: Flat, three-lap run around the lake and through Hippie Hollow
Spectator Support: Very spectator-friendly and compressed course with enthusiastic crowds

IRONMAN Texas has a unique point-to-point swim in freshwater lake Woodlands with a narrow canal section that’s great for spectators. However, it’s not always wetsuit legal. The two-lap bike course is flat and “mostly closed” to traffic, but it’s on the Hardy Toll Road, so prepare for no shade and wind, either on the out or back.

The three-lap run course is legendary and consistently rated among the best on the IM circuit, thanks in large part to Hippie Hollow, a spectator section around mile 6 with tie-dye-clad hippies, twinkling lights, and drums. Click here to read The Legend of Hippie Hollow.

*Fun Fact: IRONMAN Texas is the first North American IRONMAN race of the season.

IRONMAN Maryland (Cambridge, MD)

Swim: Brackish swim in the Choptank River
Bike: Very flat with potential for wind
Run: Flat, multi-loop course
Spectator Support: Small-town atmosphere. Quieter run, but lots of support at “Chaos Corner.”

Those who finish IRONMAN Maryland become part of the proud tradition of “Crabby Nation.” The two-lap swim is in the Choptank River and is timed with the tide, so you can swim against current on the outbound and with the current on the inbound. There’s the potential for chop and Sea Nettles that can sting a bit. Veterans use vaseline to help with that.

The two-loop, pancake-flat bike course goes through Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, which is home to a large concentration of bald eagles, so keep an eye out.

The three-lap, flat run course goes along the river and through quaint nautical neighborhoods in downtown Cambridge. Athletes pass by “Chaos Corner” six times where there’s lots of spectators lining the street. Be prepared that if it rains, parts of this course can flood.

*Fun Fact: The run course passes by the house Annie Oakley lived in from 1913-1917, as well as High Street, considered to be the most haunted street on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

IRONMAN California (Sacramento, California)

Swim: Cold, fast swim in the American and Sacramento River
Bike: Very flat farmland course with loops
Run: Flat run along the river
Spectator Support: Good, but varies by location.

While the swim is cold (65°) it’s blazing fast with downstream current in the American and Sacramento River. The two-loop bike course is very flat going through scenic farmland and vineyards. While scenic, be prepared for sun exposure and wind.

The run is flat and fast with two laps that travel along the River Walk Trail, under the Tower Bridge, and into Discovery Park. The finish line is in front of the California State Capitol. This race is definitely on our must-do list.

*Fun Fact: The fastest swim time at IM California was 42:17 by Jan Sibbersen.

Mostly B's: Rolling Terrain

These races offer a balance of flat to rolling and hilly sections for athletes who want a bit of challenge without extreme elevation. These could also be good options for first-timers depending on skill-set.

IRONMAN Arizona (Tempe, AZ)

Matt at IM AZ in 2024 (his first Ironman)!

Swim: One-loop swim in cold Tempe Town Lake
Bike: Flat to steady climb on a three-loop course
Run: Flat, three-loop course around Tempe Town Lake
Spectator Support: A spectator-friendly course with incredible crowds on the run.

Tempe, Arizona is known for over 300 days of sunshine a year, so expect beautiful race conditions with mild temperatures. However, prepare for a cold swim (potentially wetsuit-mandatory) on the one-lap swim in Tempe Town Lake.

The three-loop bike course starts out flat heading into the Salt River Pima Maricopa Indian Community with red rock formations and giant cacti. Then, there’s a steady 10-mile climb to the turnaround that you repeat three times with elevation gain of approximately 2,500 feet. Prepare for wind at some point during the day.

The three-lap run course is flat with a few short inclines and travels along the river and up on a ridge. Spectator support is excellent on this run course with lots of energy!

2024 Ironman Arizona Race Report

IRONMAN Chattanooga (Chattanooga, TN)

The iconic Walnut Street Bridge in Chattanooga. (Photo- 2021 70.3 Chattanooga)

Swim: Downstream swim in the Tennessee River
Bike: Three loops of hilly terrain on US-27
Run: Two-lap rolling course with different sections
Spectator Support: Very spectator-friendly with great support at transition and the run course

Chattanooga is such a popular triathlon destination there’s also a 70.3 that sells out almost every year! The downriver swim in the Tennessee River is typically wetsuit legal, but not a guarantee. Current can be hit or miss, but it’s a scenic swim that passes underneath several bridges on the way to transition at Ross’s Landing Park.

The bike course changed for the full distance race in 2024. Currently, it’s three loops on a dedicated lane of US-27 with amazing views of the Cumberland Plateau. This race could fall in the hilly category as well, because it has 4,300 ft. of gain.

The two-lap run is scenic traveling along the Tennessee Riverwalk, over Veterans Bridge, into North Shore, and back over the Walnut Street Bridge for approximately 1,098 ft. of gain. The steep hill up Barton Ave. is something to look out for. There are plenty of places for spectators to watch for their athletes on the many bridges on course.

*Fun Fact: I’ve raced 70.3 Chattanooga three times, and the course is similar to IM Chattanooga (with the exception of 2024 bike course changes to the full distance). Click here to read Everything You Need to Know About Triathlon in Chattanooga.

Mostly C's: Historic Hilly Races

Ideal for those who love a scenic, challenging race with a hilly bike course. These are historic races steeped in tradition.

IRONMAN Lake Placid (Lake Placid, NY)

Swim: Two-lap swim in Mirror Lake
Bike: Challenging course with long climbs and descents
Run: Rolling terrain
Spectator Support: Historic race atmosphere

IRONMAN Lake Placid is on many athlete’s bucket lists because of the scenic and challenging course. The race starts at Mirror Lake with breathtaking views of the Adirondack mountains. The two-lap swim is typically wetsuit legal with a unique underwater cable line that sits a few feet below the surface for easy navigation.

The two-loop bike course is very challenging with approximately 7,432 feet of elevation gain. But athletes are rewarded with stunning views of the Adirondacks and the Olympic Center. There’s technical challenge in the Keene descent where you drop 1,500 feet over 5 miles.

The two-lap run course through the city center is technically rolling, but most of the elevation gain (1,258 ft.) is in the climb over “Mill Hill.” The finish line at the Olympic Oval is a pretty cool way to finish an Ironman.

*Fun Fact: A historic race, Lake Placid is one of the oldest IRONMAN locations.

IRONMAN Wisconsin (Madison, WI)

Swim: Lake swim in Lake Monona
Bike: Hilly course through rural Wisconsin
Run: Rolling hills
Spectator Support: Fantastic with enthusiastic crowds

IRONMAN Wisconsin is another challenging race with a beast of a bike course. The race begins with a two-lap swim in Lake Monona. Then, athletes run up the helix to transition before embarking on a hilly, two-loop bike course.

This course features the “Three Sisters,” consisting of Old Sauk Pass, Timber Lane, and Midtown Road for a total of 3,219 ft. approximate elevation gain. The two-lap run heads into downtown Madison and inside Camp Randall Stadium. The red carpet finish line is in front of the iconic Capitol Building.

*Fun fact: Athletes are encouraged to “Moo” when they exit the swim. Why? No idea. I assume it has something to do with cheese.

Mostly D's: Destination Races & Unique Challenges

These destination races are great for athletes looking for a unique challenge or fun atmosphere.

IRONMAN Canada-Ottawa (Ottawa, Canada)

Swim: Swim in the Ottawa River
Bike: Closed bike course
Run: Rolling hills with scenic views
Spectator Support: To be determined.

This is a brand-new event with a summer date in Canada so there’s not a lot of specific information about the course yet. The swim is two loops in the Ottawa River. The completely closed bike course is said to consist of 2.75 scenic loops with 323 meters of elevation gain. The run is two, flat loops along the Rideau Canal finishing in front of Parliament.

*Fun Fact: This is a brand-new race that sold out prior to the first event taking place in August 2025.

IRONMAN Cozumel (Cozumel, Mexico)

Swim: Ocean swim in Cozumel Reefs National Marine Park
Bike: Flat but often windy
Run: Flat, coastal course with heat and humidity
Spectator Support: Excellent with a vibrant local atmosphere

Cozumel is located off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula, so think coral reefs, turquoise waters, and white sand beaches that stretch for miles. The point-to-point swim is a highlight because of the exceptionally clear water and marine life. With water temperatures reaching 79°, be prepared for a non-wetsuit swim. But the current is super fast.

The extremely flat, three-loop bike course circles the island for a total of 443 ft. of gain. Because there’s a lot of wind, disc wheels aren’t allowed. The flat, three-lap run (124 ft.) travels along the waterfront, through downtown, and into historic neighborhoods with lively spectator support.

*Fun Fact: IRONMAN Cozumel was the site of Kristian Blummenfelt's record-setting time in 2021 of 7:21:12 with a 39:41 swim!

IRONMAN Brazil (Florianópolis, Brazil)

Swim: Ocean swim with an Australian exit
Bike: Flat, windy course
Run: Four-lap flat run
Spectator Support: Enthusiastic crowds with a party-vibe

Brazil offers a similar beachside, tropical vibe to Cozumel, but with more favorable weather conditions, although there can be some rain.

The unique reverse M-shaped swim starts on the beach and has an Australian exit at the halfway point. The circuitous, two-loop bike course is primarily flat, but like with any island course, be prepared for wind and potentially rain. The four-lap run is said to have enthusiastic crowds at Avenida dos Buzios.

*Fun Fact: On the run course map, there’s a unique aid station offering- “peanut candy” or Pacoquita.

*Now for the special section! Triple Threat Life Club members receive access to:

IRONMAN-The Americas Race Comparison Table
Course Breakdown- Toughest/Most Unique Features of America’s IRONMAN.
Links to all Race Guides I’ve written for IRONMAN and Triathlete Magazine.

Also, as a club member, you get:

✅ Bonus deep dives and in-depth articles just for members, including worksheets, guides, and templates.

✅ Members-only discounts from premium brands like ROKA, Rudy Project, Running Warehouse, and more saving you hundreds on gear.

✅ Monthly expert video calls featuring top coaches, pro triathletes, and mindset specialists.

✅ 10 Tips Triathlon e-book covering the essentials for swim, bike, run, and more. (in progress, we have 1 post left before the e-book goes live!)

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IRONMAN Race Selector 2000

Factors to consider when picking an Ironman