Ironman Louisville

I am only a volunteer at this event, but I have always been impressed with the amount of organization involved not to mention the pure athleticism this event attracts. I’ve been to the last two and it’s quite an experience. It takes about 3,000 volunteers to pull it off. If you ever decide to do an Ironman, you must experience the Louisville Ironman. If you aren’t an athlete, then be a volunteer. You can start signing up in March.

I did Ironman Louisville last summer as a first-​time Iron Distance triathlete and was really pleased with the course, organization, and assistance available to the athletes. Because it is a relatively new race (started in 2007), and registration is only on-​line, it is a bit easier to get into than the other more established IM races, which often sell out on-​site at the event for next year’s race.
The city of Louisville is incredibly welcoming, and it was easy to get a room at the host hotel, The Galt House, at a very reasonable rate. Check-​in was extremely efficient, and there were a variety of expos and informational events on-​site for the athletes.
The race day tends to be in the mid-​90s and humid, so a good idea to factor this into your training/​hydration plan. One unique thing about this race is the time trial swim start, where athletes line up on a first come, first served basis to begin their swim, rather than the mass «washingmachine» start at other IMs. The swim is very warm and wetsuits are generally not allowed, but it is mostly with the current and fairly scenic so it passes quickly.
The transition areas are well organized, and you will usually have your own volunteer to help you dress and get your stuff. The bike course is beautiful and scenic, with gorgeous fields, horse farms, and I even saw a herd of Buffalo which was quite a surprise. The course has some hills, which I’ve seen described as both «rolling» and «relentless.» So difficulty is probably mostly dependent on your own skill level, although I am a pretty weak biker and got through okay so probably not that bad for most. The course does get extremely hot, and we saw many athletes in a bad state on the side of the road, but medical vehicles seemed to be coming around for them as needed.
The run is entirely flat, and out and back double loop with not much shade, but there are aid stations and restrooms all along the course stocked with ice cold drinks and plenty of ice! Volunteers were great, and the finish line at 4^th Street Live is loud, bright, and really well organized.
I highly recommend both the race and the city of Louisville as a venue!