IRONMAN Australia will return to Port Macquarie on Sunday, 18 October, with a new spot on the calendar and changes to the bike course.
The event has moved from its traditional May date for 2026.
“There were a couple of reasons behind this move, including hopefully having more favourable weather conditions and spacing out the race calendar for IRONMAN events in Australia and New Zealand, making it possible for more athletes to take part,” said IRONMAN Australia Regional Director Matthew Walton.
Athletes will also notice changes out on the bike course.
“From a course perspective, some adjustments have been made to the bike course to provide a better experience for athletes, including using some new roads that have recently been upgraded, offering a smoother ride,” said Mr Walton.
IRONMAN Australia has been part of the mid-north coast event calendar for more than 35 years, with the last 20 in Port Macquarie. Athletes from around the world travel to the town to take part in the original Australian IRONMAN triathlon.
“Those travelling to Port Macquarie this October can expect that great atmosphere and community involvement that we know and love from this event,” said Mr Walton.
Many athletes come back year after year.
“Our IRONMAN Australia athletes love the support and involvement from the local community, with so many people getting out on course to cheer athletes on during their race,” said Mr Walton.
Local businesses welcome athletes during their stay, and spectators help to create the race day atmosphere.
“The involvement of the local community plays a major role in the ongoing success of IRONMAN Australia,” said Mr Walton.
Volunteers are a key part of that effort.
“We’re very thankful for the ongoing involvement of local volunteers who get right behind the event and play an important role across a number of areas, from athlete check-in, to on-course aid stations, to their finish line experience,” said Mr Walton.
The event is also a boost for the wider Mid North Coast.
“Events like IRONMAN Australia provide a significant economic boost to the region, drawing in visitors from across Australia and around the world to stay, race and play,” said Mr Walton.
Last year’s event was estimated to have an economic impact of more than $9 million. More than 8,000 visitors from outside the region contributed more than 33,000 visitor nights in the Port Macquarie region.
IRONMAN Australia is also pitched at people taking on their first IRONMAN.
“IRONMAN Australia is a great option for those looking at their first IRONMAN triathlon,” said Mr Walton.
The event is within easy reach of Sydney and Brisbane, which suits athletes who want to race close to home for their first IRONMAN. The course also has features that make it stand out. These include a swim that mixes salt and fresh water with a weir crossing, the Matthew Flinders Drive climb on the bike, and the run along the break wall.
“We can’t wait to welcome our IRONMAN Australia athletes, their families and supporters back to Port Macquarie this October for what will be another very special edition of this iconic event,” said Mr Walton.
For more information, visit https://www.ironman.com/races/im-australia
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