IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga 2026 Race Preview
IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga returns on Sunday 17 May 2026, drawing a strong pro field to the Tennessee River for one of the most scenic and challenging half-iron events on the North American calendar. Here’s everything you need to know before race day.
Race Overview
Chattanooga is a Silver tier race in the IRONMAN Pro Series, with $40,000 USD in prize money on the line. The course is beloved for its fast downriver Tennessee River swim, rolling Georgia countryside bike leg, and picturesque downtown run route — making it a favourite for both pros and age-groupers.
Course Guide
Swim (1.9km): A point-to-point swim starting 1 mile upstream from T1 in the Tennessee River. Athletes benefit from a gentle downstream current, making it one of the faster 70.3 swims on the calendar. Wetsuit legal in most years given May river temperatures.
Bike (90km): The course heads 11 miles south before beginning a 34-mile loop in north Georgia. Riders travel alongside Lookout Mountain on rolling roads, passing through historic Chickamauga near the end of the loop. The terrain is manageable but demands consistent power output — no coasting sections.
Run (21.1km): Two flat laps through downtown Chattanooga, crossing Veterans Bridge and the iconic Walnut Street Bridge, following the Tennessee Riverwalk. The spectator-friendly route rewards strong runners and offers great crowd support.
Pro Field Highlights
Men: Cameron Wurf (AUS) is the standout favourite. The former professional cyclist consistently posts devastating bike splits at 70.3 distance, and the demanding Chattanooga bike course suits his strengths. Trevor Foley and Sam Lom (USA) will look to close the gap on the run.
Women: Kyra Meulenberg (NLD) and Olivia Dietzel (USA) headline the women’s field. Dietzel is particularly dangerous on the flat run course, where her running economy could prove decisive. Danielle Fautex (FRA) is another name to watch.
Race Predictions
Wurf’s cycling power makes him the clear men’s favourite on this course, though a competitive field will aim to limit his advantage off the bike. Expect sub-3:45 for the top men. The women’s race looks more open — look for a thrilling run leg deciding the outcome, with sub-4:15 likely at the front.
How to Watch
Follow live athlete tracking at IRONMAN.com on race day, 17 May 2026. Coverage is also available via the IRONMAN Now app. Pro wave starts early morning local EST — check the official race site for confirmed start times and coverage details closer to the event.
