KEY WEST, Florida Keys — The annual Key West Triathlon, scheduled for Sunday, December 10, promises to be an exhilarating challenge for athletes looking to push their physical and mental limits in a stunning subtropical setting.
Organized by Integrity Multisport and sponsored by Mack Cycle, this thrilling racing event unfolds at the entrance to the southernmost island of the continental United States.
Participants in the Key West Triathlon can expect a comprehensive test of their abilities, comprising swimming in the pristine waters of the Gulf of Mexico, cycling along a picturesque section of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, and running on a scenic wateredge course.
Several race options to choose from
Athletes have several race options to choose from, including the international-distance triathlon, long and short sprint-distance triathlons, duathlon, and aquabike competitions. For those who prefer teamwork, two- or three-person relay teams can also join the event, with each member taking on different legs of the selected race.
The international-distance triathlon features an 800-meter swim, a 20-mile bicycle ride, and a 5-mile run. Long sprint-distance participants face a 400-meter swim, a 14-mile bicycle ride, and a 3.6-mile run, while short sprint-distance contenders tackle a 200-meter swim, an 8-mile bike ride, and a 2-mile run. Aquabike entrants compete in a 400-meter swim and a 14-mile bike ride, while the duathlon combines a 1-mile run, a 14-mile bicycle ride, and a 3.6-mile run.
The event’s schedule kicks off on Saturday, December 9, with a packet pick-up from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the race headquarters located at the College of the Florida Keys, 5901 College Road. Saturday also includes a pre-race clinic at 1:00 p.m., which is required for first-time participants and recommended for all attendees, taking place at the same location.
Recognition goes to the top three finishers in various age groups
Sunday’s action begins with late packet pick-up and bike check-in from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. at the college. The races are set to start with wave starts at preset intervals.
Competitors will have the chance to earn awards, with recognition going to the top three finishers in various age groups, as well as the top three overall male and female finishers, and the top three male and female masters (racers aged 40 and above). All participants who complete the event will receive a medal, and presentations will follow the conclusion of each race.
It’s important to note that the Key West Triathlon is sanctioned by USA Triathlon. Entry fees vary by race category, with international-distance fees set at $209 per individual and $289 per relay team. Long sprint-distance triathlon and duathlon entry fees are $179 per individual and $259 per team, while the aquabike fee is $179 per individual. Entrants in the short sprint-distance triathlon will pay $159 per individual and $239 per relay team.
