Ride the Ridge
Experience the Blue Ridge Mountains like never before while kicking off your season with an epic early summer race at the Carilion Clinic IRONMAN 70.3 Virginia’s Blue Ridge. No other bike course on the circuit showcases such natural beauty as athletes Ride The Ridge and take on the soon to be famous climb, Bear Wallow Gap. The majestic mountains provide a scenic backdrop for all the outdoor adventures in the Roanoke Valley. Roanoke is the largest city on the world-famous Appalachian Trail and sets the stage for amazing outdoor adventures.
Swim
The one-lap swim will take place in the warm clear waters of Carvins Cove Reservoir. Average water temperatures in early June are in the 70s. The event will start with a rolling start, where athletes self-seed based on anticipated total swim time. NOTE: While paddleboards are allowed on the water, swimming is NOT permitted in Carvin’s Cove Reservoir. A special use exemption has been provided for the race. Registered athletes who are swimming in the reservoir prior to the race will be disqualified. Please respect the local laws.
Bike
Once out of the water, athletes will take on the 56-mile bike course that is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains. Athletes will depart from Carvins Cove in Roanoke County and continue east into beautiful Botetourt County towards the Town of Buchanan, a quaint, walkable town with antique shops and a great view of the James River. It is the starting point for an epic five-mile climb on Route 43 to the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance. The Blue Ridge Parkway’s 469-miles links Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Athletes will experience breathtaking views of the valley, as they ride and descend 21-miles of completely closed roads to the Town of Vinton at Route 24; Vinton is a gateway community to the Blue Ridge Parkway with small town charm and is adjacent to the City of Roanoke. The ride will end at the beautiful River’s Edge Park, next to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, in the heart of Roanoke, Va.
Run
The course follows the paved Roanoke River Greenway path along the banks of the spectacular Roanoke River. This provides athletes shade while running through several parks along the course. The finish is conveniently in River’s Edge Park.
Swim: RESERVOIR
Bike: HILLY
Run: FLAT
Avg Air Temp: 74° F / 23° C
Avg Water Temp: 73° F / 23° C
Airport: ROA
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