Lanzarote Ironman

Every year, at the end of may, Lanzarote and its spectacular landscapes are the stage of one of the hardest race of the world, the Lanzarote Ironman. It is a triathlon with a qualifying race for the Hawaii Ironman World Championships.

The first competition took place in 1992 in Tinajo and was a true success. Organized by Club La Santa with the support of Cabildo de Lanzarote, in this edition took part 148 athletes, but only 116 of them finished the race. The next year, this event was moved to Puerto del Carmen, where it is currently celebrated.

Lanzarote Ironman

 

The triathletes have to break the following stages:

  • SWIMMING: Distance of 3,8 kms. The starting point is in Playa Grande, in Puerto del Carmen. Many tourists and residents of the island meet up from the very early morning of that day to see the starting of the competition, when all triathletes plunge into the water.
  • CYCLING: Distance of 180 kms. The way by bike leads the athlete through many corners of the island, enjoying unusual landscapes and amazing views, reaching sometimes a difference in height of 2551 meters. This stage is an important challenge for the athletes, due to constant wind and the peculiar orography of Lanzarote.
  • MARATHON: Distance of 42,195 kms. Finally, the route on foot leads the competitors along the avenue from Puerto del Carmen to Arrecife and return (1st lap), and to Matagorda and return (2nd lap). All of them will receive the help of different volunteers and of course the support of thousands of people around the streets.

Kenneth Gasque // Photo: Kevin Mackinnon

The launch of Lanzarote Ironman is thank to Kenneth Gasque, the real creator of what today is one of the most prestigious triathlons of the world. This man from Denmark arrived to the island more than 30 years ago to take over the sports hotel Club La Santa, which has become a landmark for many triathletes and elite sports people for their preseason training. In 1985 Kenneth organized the first triathlon on Spanish soil, the Volcano Triathlon (1,5 kilometers swimming, 40 by bike and 10 running), with the presence of legendary triathletes like Dave Scott or Lun Van Lierde. Besides he created in Lanzarote the mini-triathlon, (400 meters swimming, 15,2 kilometers by bike and 4,3 running). Thus, residents and visitors of the island started to know this kind of sport event, enjoying all of them.

Currently Kenneth is also the creator of popular races in the last years in the island like the Wine Run and the Oceanlava. But without a doubt, Lanzarote Ironman is the competition with which he has gained more popularity and recognition, as this event has been consolidated every year and has become a benchmark for success in the international calendar of triathlons.

Lanzarote Ironman bicicle

 

* Cover photo: islaflipica.blogspot.com.es
* Photos of the text: www.ironman.com

 

 

Check out our Travel Tips

Caldera de Taburiente: Hiking Trails for All Levels

Discover the majestic Caldera de Taburiente through various hiking routes that allow you to explore this impressive environment. There are routes for all levels and all of them are more beautiful. Live a unique experience on the beautiful island!

La Gomera: Five Unmissable Places and Gastronomic Delights

La Gomera is characterized by its great natural beauty, with a wide variety of landscapes and ecosystems that make it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It is a perfect natural destination for those seeking to enjoy the wonders of nature.

Unveiling the Past: Archaeological Sites in Gran Canaria

Discover places that will transport you to the past and learn more about the history of the ancient Canarian settlers.

Holidays in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands is a perfect destination for culture, gastronomy, nature and, of course, sun and relaxation lovers. Come and discover the Canary Islands on your Holidays. A place that gives unforgettable memories.

El Hierro, a different island

El Hierro, known as the island with a soul is an island full of corners that will make you fall in love from the first moment. Who visits the island always ends up coming back … What are you waiting for?

About us

CanaryTripBooking is made up of a multidisciplinary team where each one of the members of the group contributes an added value that makes us able to function perfectly as a whole. Our main values ​​are: companionship, learning, teamwork, working with local suppliers …

Romantic places in the Canary Islands

The Canary Islands are a perfect place to live a special and unique Valentine’s Day. Enjoy the most romantic and unforgettable corners of the Fortunate Islands.

“Instagrammable” places of Lanzarote

Lanzarote has a lot of corners, some of them unknown for many people, and with a singular beauty which give us real postcards that would surely fill Instagram and other social networks with many likes. In our blog, we show you some of these places.

An island for every kind of tourist

In the Canary Islands, every one is different, some of them are known for its beaches, others for its volcanic landscapes, or for its peace and tranquility…In our blog, you will discover, which one is your favourite to enjoy a great holiday this summer.

Enjoy the coast of Lanzarote in catamaran

One more year summer is already here, and with it, are coming the sunshine days and the high temperatures. Without a doubt, it is an ideal season to enjoy the coast of Lanzarote and discover different coves where you can cool off and spend a wonderful day.

Find us in Social Networks

Don’t miss our promotions !

Subscribe to our newsletter and receive emails with special offers and news!