Athlo Blog

Triathlon popularity has grown tremendously over the past few years, especially the Ironman distance. If you are considering an Ironman next year, the most important thing to know is registration sells out fast! Ironman Wisconsin sold out in 10 minutes this year.

Race sizes are generally small. Wisconsin only allows 2,200 entries. Triathletes who registered for this year’s race were able to register for next year’s race a week before the general public. That doesn’t leave many spots for people doing their first Ironman.

Registration for the general public is usually the morning after the actual race. You have to be there in person and cannot register someone else. A photo ID is also required.

Most 2009 Ironman races I know of are already sold out. Ironman Louisville still has about 45 slots for the August 30th, 2009 race. Here are a couple more late season triathlons you still have a good chance of registering for:

• Ford Ironman Florida Registration - Sunday, November 2, 2008 9:00AM-11:00AM
• Ford Ironman Arizona Registration - Monday, November 24, 2008 7:00AM-9:00AM

If you have your heart set on a particular race but registration is sold out, research whether or not they offer charity spots. The cost is usually double the entry fee, with half of that amount going to charity, but still gets you in. A fundraiser or help from friends and family are a couple ways to reduce how much of the $1000 you’ll have to pay.

I plan to register soon for Ironman Louisville 2009. Look for more posts from me on triathlon training.