Triathlons in Spain

Home to some of the finest landscapes in Europe Spain is definitely a top destination for both beginners, intermediate and advanced triathletes looking for a different sort of physical challenge. Most Triathlons happen between February and September throughout the year. The weather in Spain varies massively between these times but below I have highlighted a few events which are sure to be an eye stopper for those looking to get into doing a triathlon or semi professionals alike.

Types of triathlons

Triathlons are usually split into the following types:

Sprint Triathlons – 750m Swim, 20KM Bike, 5KM Run
Olympic Triathlons – 1.5km Swim, 40KM Bike, 10KM Run
Long Triathlons–1.9KM Swim, 90KM Bike, 21.1 KM Run
Ultra long – Known commonly as the ironman

As you can see the distance varies massively. Nowadays there are slight variations on these such as Cross Triathlons, triathlons over a rougher terrain such as a beach, forest, mountains etc. These are sometimes more physically enduring than an Olympic triathlon on road because it requires you to focus significantly more regarding which direction and speed you are travelling in, and as the terrain requires more effort these are very difficult. They are however a great place to start from if you are looking to get into triathlons.

There are several brands and organizations when it comes to triathlons in Spain. Most are part of the Federation of Triathlons in Spain. The most common in Spain are: Gescon Chip – offer a broad range of duathlons, triathlons, aquathlons and cross sprints etc. all over Spain. Easy to sign up, cheap and all information is uploaded onto your account.  ICAN – This is the equivalent to an IRONMAN. The distances are tough and challenging and entry fees are a lot more expensive. These courses are for true triathletes. Then there are other organizations like: TriStar, TriSur, AviaMan, IronCat and Ironman (in the Canary Islands).

Cities also organize their own private triathlons without major companies so bare that it mind. So if you’re looking to get involved or take advantage of Spain’s ideal climate and geography than here are a few stand out triathlons in Spain to look out for. Have a google if you are unsure, there are normally a lot smaller:

TIMANFAYA TRIATHLON

Located in the Canary Islands, this is a great early year triathlon blessed with great African weather. This is a Sprint triathlon and a top spot to get some early year experience and practice ahead of the bigger events. Intermediate and advanced.

ICAN MALAGA APRIL

Definitely a top triathlon for the elite. This is a long triathlon located in the south coast of Spain that is not one for the faint hearted. You have to sign up quite early and prices are quite high but definitely worth trying. Advanced

TRISUR SEVILLA

This is definitely a great event for everyone. They do sprint, Olympic and Long triathlons. Fine landscape but very, very hot so make sure to drink a lot of water. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced.

TRIATLON DE CARTAGENA

Great event and in a nice location, located on the south east coast of Spain. This is a sprint triathlon and a good one to do. Good for all levels, and a great place to start. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced.

TRIATLON VILLA DE MADRID

Located in the heart of the city this is definitely a recommended triathlon. Level is normally quite high but they offer both sprint and Olympic triathlons. Definitely worth a look. Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced.

That’s about it, let me know if you have any experience with the above or if there are a couple crackers I might have missed out on!