Coastal Crush Along the coast in the Florida Panhandle lies the storied Panama City Beach. Full of thrill and adventure, this destination is also home to speed and beauty. With some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and idyllic weather, Panama City Beach sets the perfect stage for those chasing …
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Coastal Crush
Along the coast in the Florida Panhandle lies the storied Panama City Beach. Full of thrill and adventure, this destination is also home to speed and beauty. With some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and idyllic weather, Panama City Beach sets the perfect stage for those chasing their first IRONMAN 70.3 finish line or those more experienced looking for a personal record. With a buoyant saltwater swim in the Gulf of Mexico, a non-technical bike ride through the Florida pines, and a fast, spectator-filled run course along the coast, you will love the chill vibes you’ll receive in this iconic beach town.
Swim
The one-loop swim takes place in the Gulf of Mexico. With an early sunrise, the swim will start at 6:00 AM. Strong currents, riptides, and occasional marine life are possible; a universal flag system is used locally. Athletes will have a short run on the beach to the shower and then into transition.
IRONMAN 70.3 Gulf Coast will feature a “Rolling Start”. Athletes will self-seed into swim start corrals based upon their estimated swim finish time. Each athlete will be allotted 1 hour 10minutes to complete the swim course. Self-seeding will be based on individual abilities according to expected finish time. Athletes can avoid being overtaken by stronger swimmers by seeding themselves with athletes of a similar skill and ability levels.
Athletes’ official race time will start at the water’s edge once they enter the water. All athletes will have the traditional 8 ½ hours to complete the entire event (subject to intermediate cutoff times throughout the event).
Bike
The one-loop course is flat and fast. The highest point on the course is only 161 feet above sea level, and the wind tends to be light. Athletes should expect a fast bike split, and be prepared to stay in their aero bars.
Run
This is one of the flattest run courses on the IRONMAN circuit. The three-loop course is fast and flat. Athletes will run parallel to the shoreline and Aid Stations are strategically placed for multiple hits every mile.
Swim: OCEAN
Bike: FLAT
Run: FLAT
Avg Air Temp: 78° F / 26° C
Avg Water Temp: 71° F / 22° C
Airport: ECP
LESS
Great race
Fantastic support. Great crowds. Swim is cancelled more frequently than you would think and it was when I participated as well. Overall. Would participate again. MORE
Fantastic support. Great crowds. Swim is cancelled more frequently than you would think and it was when I participated as well.
Overall. Would participate again.
Perfect Weather
Easy course, nice weather, and beautiful beach locale. IM did a great job managing Covid protocols. Stay at the host hotel for a real spectator and athlete-friendly experience. MORE
Easy course, nice weather, and beautiful beach locale. IM did a great job managing Covid protocols. Stay at the host hotel for a real spectator and athlete-friendly experience.