12 best Olympic distance triathlons in the world
At Let’s Do This, we’re always on the look out for the best events for you to discover next. The Olympic Distance Triathlon, also known as the Standard or International Distance, includes a 1.5km/0.93 mile swim, a 40km/24.85 mile bike, and a 10km/6.2 mile run. So, I’ve picked out some of the most iconic Olympic triathlons in the world.
From landmark city events to exotic tours, and covering 4 continents, here are the 9 most incredible swim-bike-run events over the Olympic Distance plus a few more that don’t quite fit the official distances but I wanted to include for good measure. Having competed in the 2019 Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Nice, these Olympic Distances triathlons are definitely on my bucket list.
Find your next Olympic triathlon
1. Nautica Malibu Triathlon, California, USA
When: September
The route: The swim section takes place in the epic Pacific Ocean, the bike course takes you out-and-back along the awe-inspiring Pacific Coast Highway, and the tarmac run takes you along the sands of Zuma Beach. That’s a pretty impressive course description.
Why: You will benefit from some incredible views of the ocean on one side and mountains on the other. This event is also a great opportunity for celebrity-spotting, as there as an Entertainment Industry Challenge over a slightly shorter course for charity. In previous years, Tom Cruise, Jennifer Lopez, and Jennifer Garner have taken part.
2. Royal Windsor Triathlon, UK
https://www.youtube.com/embed/c4Ras1R6v90
When: June
The route: After a swim in the famous River Thames, you’ll pass through the historic streets of Windsor and past Windsor Castle on your bike before heading into the surrounding countryside. The run takes you into Windsor Great Park, along the impressive Long Walk. A royal flush!
Why: No triathlon comes close to this one for prestigious surroundings, and you’ll leave feeling like a true royal. Not many people can claim to have biked around the Queen’s own grounds. The picturesque views and historic landmarks make this triathlon fit for a King. Who will be crowned winner?
3. Hamburg Wasser World Triathlon, Germany
When: July
The route: The swim is one lap of the Outer Alster Lake (or Außenalster), before the bike leg takes you on three laps through the heart of the city, including historic areas such as Speicherstadt, Landungsbrücken, and Reeperbahn. The final run section follows the west bank of the swimming Lake.
Why: This is one of the few city triathlons that actually passes through the heart of the city. Taking in the most famous warehouse district, the St Pauli Piers, and the heart of the entertainment and nightlife district, you get a great feel for Hamburg’s old town. This event boasts the world’s biggest crowds for a triathlon, with over 300,000 spectators lining the streets and cheering you all the way.
4. Beijing International Triathlon, China
When: October
The route: The course focuses on the scenic setting of Fengtai. The swim is in Garden Expo lake, and then the bike is a challenging route through Fengtai’s picturesque villages and up Qian Ling Mountain. The run passes through colourful gardens and then back up the steep steps of Garden Expo Park to the finish.
Why: This event allows you to experience Fengtai’s eco-friendly environment and cultural landmarks. The lush gardens of the Garden Expo are modeled on some of China’s most iconic regions, so it’s a fascinating observation of China’s natural scenery. It is also a chance to qualify for the Escape from Alcatraz triathlon below.
5. London Triathlon, UK
When: August
The route: The swim is in the Royal Victoria Dock of East London. The bike then takes you along the north bank of the River Thames, until a turning point at the iconic Houses of Parliament in Westminster. You then complete 4 laps of the run, cheered on every step of the way by large crowds and pumping music.
Why: One of the biggest mass-participation triathlon events in the world, with over 12,000 competitors. It is also one of the best organised triathlons, with the ExCel Centre serving as the main event hub and providing a range of shops, entertainment and atmosphere. For all competitors and spectators, this is a day that will stick long in the memory. The event spans the entire weekend and becomes a festival for triathlon sport.
6. Chicago Triathlon, USA
When: August
The route: Following a swim in the sheltered Monroe Harbour, and a traffic-free bike course through one of America’s largest metropolises, the run section goes through the iconic Museum Campus, surrounded by raucous and inspirational support.
Why: Swimming in crystal clear water while skyscrapers tower above you has to be on any triathlete’s bucket list. This is one of the most spectacular city triathlons on the circuit, and on the bike course you might begin to understand why Chicago is known as the windy city - hold on!
7. Noosa Triathlon, Australia
When: November
The route: The swim leg takes place in the calm but stunning waters of Laguna Bay off Noosa Main Beach. The bike section takes you out from Noosa Heads along to Noosa Sound with some technical climbs and downhill sections, before returning for Transition 2. You finish with an out-and-back run with a grandstand finish on the waterfront.
Why: This is one of the biggest multi-sport festivals in the world, and offers the perfect combination of sun, sand, and sea. Not only is the event a huge adrenaline rush, but the end of weekend celebrations start off with a massive beach party at the Surf Club, and then things really get going at the Reef Hotel after party.
8. Herbalife24 Triathlon Los Angeles, USA
When: May
The route: Starting at the iconic Venice Beach, you swim in the Pacific Ocean before getting on your bike and heading through the streets of LA, heading uphill to Olympic Boulevard. After some scenic hills, you head down into Downtown LA for the run, which heads west towards Koreatown on a two-lap course. This route gives you a taste of everything LA has to offer.
Why: This is a completely unique way of experiencing the variety and sights of Los Angeles. The setting on Venice Beach alone is breathtaking enough, but this event has the lot. It’s highly reviewed for its flat and fast course design, and there are Sprint and Relay options if you aren’t yet ready for the International Distance.
9. Women Only Triathlon, Berkshire, UK
When: July
The route: The swim takes place in the clear waters of Dorney Lake, which was used for rowing events in the Olympics. The bike and run courses are then completely flat taking you around the lake and giving you a great opportunity for a PB. Now that’s girl power.
Why: This race is a great opportunity for women to get involved with triathlons, as it’s exclusively for female triathletes. Beyond the Olympic Triathlon, there are 7 other distances on offer, as well as other multisports, so women of all abilities can come and have a go. If this wasn’t already reason enough to sign up, the event is organised to raise money for Breast Cancer Care.
Ok, so I couldn’t resist adding a few more events that don’t quite fit into the Olympic distance triathlon category. But, if you're here looking for some truly epic triathlon events around the planet, then definitely check these ones out.
10. Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon, San Francisco, USA
When: June
The route: Distances: 1.4 mile (2.4km) swim; 18 mile (29km) bike; 8 mile (12.9km) run. Jumping off the Belle steamboat into the strong currents of San Francisco Bay’s spine-chilling waters, the 1.4-mile (2.4km) swim goes from the infamous Alcatraz Island to Marina Green Beach, by St Francis Yacht Club on the shore. This is followed by a challenging bike section which includes stretches in the Presidio, the Golden Gate Park, and on the Great Highway before returning to Marina Green. The even more challenging run finishes off the route, turning at Lincoln Boulevard by Baker Beach Battery, before heading through deep sand and up 400 cliff steps until they finally head back to the hub.
Why: This has become one of the most famous triathlons on the circuit, and is the target of several qualifying races (see the Beijing International Triathlon above). Each leg provides its own fresh challenges, and even the most experienced triathletes will really have to dig deep at a number of stages. The payoff is definitely worth it though, as it is an event on many triathlon bucket lists, and for good reason.
11. Laguna Phuket Triathlon, Thailand
When: November
The route: Distances: 1.8km swim; 55km bike; 12km run. Starting from the beaches of Laguna Beach Resort, you swim in the crystal blue waters of the Andaman Sea, including an ‘Australian exit’ two-thirds through, where you exit the water before running to the lagoon finish. The bike course takes you through the northern section of Phuket, with some challenging ascents up the Naithon hills. The route takes you through stunning rainforests and finishes with two laps of the Resort. The run leg stays within the resort passing various landmarks.
Why: The above description should give you an idea of how luxurious the surroundings are. The climate will be hot and humid, so it’s a challenge, but the breathtaking setting makes it all worth it. However exhausted you are, you’ll definitely be able to find energy for the after party at Laguna Grove, where the cocktails are copious.
12. Alpe d’Huez Triathlon M, France
When: July
The route: Distances: 1.2km swim; 28km bike; 6.7km run. The short, fast swim takes place in Lac du Verney, where it is not permitted to swim at any other time of year. The bike starts off by passing through the valley between Lac du Verney and Bourg d’Oisans, before heading up the legendary Alpe d’Huez climb and all of its 21 switchbacks. The gradient reaches 8%, and you’ll feel like you’re part of the Tour de France. The altitude run (1800m) climbs another 100m and requires a serious effort of endurance, but its worth it for the sense of pride as you cross the finish line.
Why: There is no more fitting location for a multi-sport endurance event than the French Alps. With unforgettable scenery and a challenging course, this will be an achievement you tell your grandchildren about. There is also a Triathlon L for those seeking an even longer test of mental and physical fortitude.
The list of best Olympic distance triathlons:
- Nautica Malibu Triathlon, California, USA
- Royal Windsor Triathlon, UK
- Hamburg Wasser World Triathlon, Germany
- Beijing International Triathlon, China
- London Triathlon, UK
- Chicago Triathlon, USA
- Noosa Triathlon, Australia
- Herbalife24 Triathlon Los Angeles, USA
- Women Only Triathlon, Berkshire, USA
- Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon, San Francisco, USA
- Laguna Phuket Triathlon, Thailand
- Alpe d'Huez Triathlon M, France
Can't see your favourite triathlon? Let us know in the comments and we'll add it in.
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The Challenges Women Face in Running and How It Impacts Participation
Running is often lauded as one of the most accessible sports—just lace up your trainers and go. However, for many women, the barriers to participation go far beyond the logistical. While safety concerns are frequently highlighted, deeper systemic issues like access to the sport and unequal treatment are also preventing more women from running. It was a topic keenly discussed at our In Her Stride panel held at the end of November, with key members of the female running community including Sophie Power, Tasha Thompson, Rehana Mawani and Emily Shane.
Running is often lauded as one of the most accessible sports—just lace up your trainers and go. However, for many women, the barriers to participation go far beyond the logistical. While safety concerns are frequently highlighted, deeper systemic issues like access to the sport and unequal treatment are also preventing more women from running. It was a topic keenly discussed at our In Her Stride panel held at the end of November, with key members of the female running community including Sophie Power, Tasha Thompson, Rehana Mawani and Emily Shane.
Before we kick things off however, we should highlight that female participation in running events is growing, and this is a great thing! According to data from Let’s Do This, women in their 20s are the fastest-growing demographic in event participation this year. However despite this, women are still 16% less likely to run every week compared to men. This disparity is particularly striking given that women report higher levels of personal benefits from running, such as improved fitness, better sleep, and reduced stress.
The reasons for this are complex and personal, however we have broken down three key challenges discussed during our panel and the solutions explored that could help address them.
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1. The Pressure of Pace
One of the biggest hurdles for many women is the pressure to run faster. Despite the average UK woman’s running speed of 06:37 min/km (according to Strava), most run clubs don’t cater to this with the slowest pace often around 6 minutes per km. Add to this the relentless focus on personal bests and fast times on social media, and it’s no surprise that many women feel too intimidated to join in.
Thankfully, there are starting to be more people rebelling against this speed obsession, including our panelist, Emily Shane. Emily has been leading the charge to encourage more women to disregard pace and focus on the experience of running to drive uptake amongst women. Initiatives like events without cutoff times and more inclusive pace groups at running clubs are vital to creating a more welcoming environment and broadening the benefits of running to the experience and community.
2. Perception of Sport in Schools
One of the topics hotly discussed was how for many girls, the barriers to enjoying physical activity start at school. Puberty, coupled with changing bodies and fluctuating emotions, can make sports feel daunting and uncomfortable for teenage girls. Research highlights this disparity: only 38% of girls enjoy sport and exercise compared to 53% of boys, and just 26% of girls feel confident in physical activity versus 43% of boys.
The panel emphasised the need to address this such as:
- Introducing a wider variety of sports and fitness activities to cater to different interests
- Providing more supportive and confidence-boosting PE kits.
- Showcasing more female role models in sport to inspire young girls.
By addressing these issues at the school level, we can foster a love of sport that lasts into adulthood.
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3. Treatment at Events
This is a topic that panelist Sophie Power, founder of SheRACES is incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about. Even at organised running events, women often experience unequal treatment. From “unisex: t-shirts (which are actually designed for men) to a lack of sanitary products in portaloos, these "small things" can collectively make women feel like an afterthought. Prize money inequality and rigid event policies—like no deferral options for pregnant or postpartum women—further highlight these disparities.
Thankfully, initiatives like the 50:50 campaign by Threshold (a campaign to get 50% of women at Ultra startlines vs. the current average of 30%) and the advocacy work of SheRACES are driving change, and there are many amazing event organisers such as Maverick, Threshold, Why We Run and many more, that are working hard to make their events are inclusive as possible for women.
Despite these challenges, the panel and attendees felt overwhelmingly optimistic about the future of running for women and the benefits it brings us. Progress is being made, however we all need to add our voices to the conversation to help more women get into the sport and reap the benefits.
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Some Helpful Resources
Here are a few helpful resources. This list isn’t exhaustive by any means, however is a good starting point for those looking for inspiration on where to start.
Female friendly events:
- Threshold Events
- London Landmarks Half Marathon
- Maverick Events
- Why We Run
- Women Run Series London 2025
Female Only Run Clubs
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From Radio to Race Day: Hattie Pearson’s Path to Endurance Event Glory
Hattie Pearson is the type of person who doesn’t just dabble in fitness (or most things…!) She dives in headfirst, often with no hand-holding (except, perhaps, metaphorically). From her first triathlon in 2021 to a series of jaw-dropping endurance feats in 2024, she’s been redefining what’s possible with determination, community, and a big ‘YES’ attitude.
Hattie Pearson is the type of person who doesn’t just dabble in fitness (or most things…!) She dives in headfirst, often with no hand-holding (except, perhaps, metaphorically). From her first triathlon in 2021 to a series of jaw-dropping endurance feats in 2024, she’s been redefining what’s possible with determination, community, and a big ‘YES’ attitude.
Just say YES
Hattie’s ‘yes’ streak started when a friend and her decided to do a sprint triathlon together. “We had such a great time,” Hattie recalls, “and I was like, I want to do more of this.” That spark quickly turned into a blaze of ambition. By the following year, she was competing in Outlaw triathlons and even signing up for a full-distance Ironman—before completing her first half-distance event. “I didn’t give myself the choice to not carry on,” she says.
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The Power of Community
For Hattie, discovering the 10IronWomen network—a group committed to gender parity in triathlons—was a game-changer. “It’s amazing to see a community encouraging women and non-binary folk to show up,” she explains. “Seeing others doing it made me think, I want to be a part of this.” That sense of solidarity and shared purpose has been a recurring theme, whether she’s lacing up for a winter triathlon in the Alps or a grueling ultra-marathon closer to home.
A Year of Big Goals
This year, Hattie set herself a dizzying list of challenges. She swam 500 kilometers (yep, that’s half a million meters!) and tackled a range of events, including a winter triathlon complete with ski touring, the Étape du Tour cycling challenge, and her first ultra-marathon. Each was hard in its own way—whether it was battling snowy trails with crampons or smashing out seven-and-a-half-minute miles for 13.1 miles. But for Hattie, the difficulty is the point. “Every time I achieve something I thought was impossible, I remind myself: I can do hard things.”
Balance and Burnout
With goals that ambitious, fitting it all in can be a challenge. Early mornings help. “I’m one of those people who can get up at 5:00 a.m,” Hattie admits, however it also takes a lot of discipline. With her work on Hits Radio starting later in the day, she carves out time for training, dog walks, and the occasional tantrum over broken goggles. “I’ve definitely had those ‘forgetting-my-swimming-costume’ moments,” she laughs. But her key to staying motivated is simple: keep it fresh and fun. Whether it’s joining her triathlon club for training or trying a completely new event, keeping it fun and different is the secret to staying motivated and on track to reach your goals.
Advice for Aspiring Endurance Athletes
For anyone looking to follow in her footsteps (or strokes), Hattie has this advice:
- Be patient. Results don’t come overnight, and the journey is as important as the destination.
- Stop comparing. “Your journey is completely your own. Social media only shows the highlights,” she reminds us.
- Find your community. Whether it’s a running club, a neighbor for early morning jogs, or an online network, accountability and camaraderie make all the difference.
What’s Next for Hattie?
In 2025, Hattie plans to tackle her first multi-day event, the Monster Triathlon. Admittedly it is as scary as it sounds, kicking off with a 5K swim in Loch Ness, followed by a 1,000-kilometer bike ride to Windsor, and wraps up with a casual 50K run to London(!). Her goals also include more open-water swimming, trail running, and maybe—just maybe—an even bigger endurance challenge. (Though definitely not swimming the English Channel: “No way am I swimming through jellyfish without a wetsuit!”)
Hattie Pearson’s journey is more than a personal triumph. It’s a testament to the power of showing up, saying yes, and proving that with the right mindset, anything is possible. Whether you’re tackling your first 5K or dreaming of an ultra-marathon, Hattie’s story is proof that the finish line is worth the hard miles. And when you cross it? You’ve won your race—medal or not. 🏅
Make your own electrolyte drink
Why spend on expensive sports drinks when you can make a natural, hydrating electrolyte drink right at home? With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a refreshing blend packed with essential minerals and hydration-boosting properties. Perfect for fueling your workout or post-run recovery, this homemade option keeps it natural, affordable, and effective.
Why spend on expensive sports drinks when you can make a natural, hydrating electrolyte drink right at home? With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a refreshing blend packed with essential minerals and hydration-boosting properties. Perfect for fueling your workout or post-run recovery, this homemade option keeps it natural, affordable, and effective.
Ingredients:
- 1 pinch of high-quality sea salt
- Small piece of fresh ginger, peeled
- 500ml coconut water (e.g., Rebel Kitchen)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh mint leaves
Instructions:
- Prepare Salt & Ginger: Add a pinch of sea salt and the peeled ginger to a blender.
- Add Coconut Water & Lime: Pour in the coconut water, squeeze in the lime juice, and add a few mint leaves.
- Blend & Serve: Blend until smooth, pour into a glass, and garnish with extra mint. Enjoy your refreshing, hydrating drink!
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