IRONMAN Japan South Hokkaido Triathlon Set for 2024 Debut
Full-Distance IRONMAN Race to Debut in South Hokkaido, September 2024
IRONMAN, the globally recognized endurance event organizer, has recently announced the addition of the IRONMAN® Japan South Hokkaido triathlon to its 2024 calendar. Scheduled for September 15, 2024, this event marks the return of full-distance IRONMAN triathlons to Japan, a milestone not seen since 2015.
The upcoming race, set between the cities of Hokuto and Kikonai on Hokkaido Island’s southern coast, presents a unique opportunity for athletes to compete in a new destination. Registration for the event will commence on December 19, 2023, at 9 am Tokyo time.
Accessibility to the event is streamlined, with multiple travel options available for participants and spectators. These include a ferry from Honshu Island to the port of Hakodate and flights to Hakodate Airport, which is a brief journey from major Japanese cities including Tokyo. Additionally, a train from Tokyo Station reaches the event locale in approximately four hours.
The IRONMAN Japan South Hokkaido begins with a 3.8km swim in the Bay of Hakodate, a notable location for channel swimmers. The bike segment of the race covers a 180km three-loop route along the Hakodate-Esashi Expressway, offering panoramic views of the coastline. The triathlon concludes with a 42.2km run through Kikonai’s scenic countryside, ending at Kikonai City Hall.
Post-race, athletes can experience local hospitality, including hot springs and regional culinary specialties like seafood and steak.
Koichi Tsunashima, the Race Director, emphasizes the unique blend of challenging course and restful amenities that the event offers. Jeff Edwards, Managing Director of Asia for The IRONMAN Group, also expresses enthusiasm for the return of an IRONMAN event to Japan, noting the significant role of Japanese races in IRONMAN history and the dedication of Japanese athletes.
Further details on the IRONMAN Japan South Hokkaido triathlon can be found at www.ironman.com/im-south-hokkaido, and inquiries can be directed to [email protected]. More information about the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 series is available at www.ironman.com.
