Outlaw Triathlon 2026: Full Distance Race Guide

Outlaw Triathlon is the UK’s most celebrated full distance event and the 2026 edition takes place on July 25–26 at Holme Pierrepont National Watersports Centre, Nottingham. For British long course athletes, the Outlaw occupies a special place — friendly, brilliantly organised, and with a crowd atmosphere that rivals any international event. Here is everything you need to know before race day.

Race Format

The Outlaw follows the classic full distance format: 3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run. The swim takes place in the flatwater rowing lake at Holme Pierrepont — one of the most swimmer-friendly full distance courses in Europe. No currents, no sea swells, just clean water and a straightforward out-and-back route. Wave starts are used to manage transitions efficiently.

The Bike Course

The 180km bike course rolls through Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire countryside. It is not flat — expect rolling hills and several climbs that will test your pacing discipline. The roads are well-surfaced in the main and the route is well-marshalled. Nutrition strategy is critical: most athletes aim for 80–100g of carbohydrate per hour on the bike. Aid stations stock gels, bars, and water every 20km.

The Run

The marathon run course follows a four-lap route along the lakeside and through the surrounding park. The multi-lap format means you pass the finish line repeatedly — mentally challenging but strategically useful for pacing. The lakeside atmosphere builds as the day progresses with supporters lining the entire route. The finish line experience is genuinely emotional and the finish chute is one of the most atmospheric in British triathlon.

Key Race Week Information

• Date: July 25–26, 2026
• Location: Holme Pierrepont National Watersports Centre, Nottingham, NG12 2LU
• Race village: Opens Friday 24 July for registration and bike racking check-in opens Saturday 25 July
• Swim start: Rolling start from approximately 6:30am
• Cut-off times: Swim 2h20m, bike 10h30m, run 17 hours from first swimmer
• Spectator access: Free for spectators throughout the race day

Packing & Preparation Tips

• Bring a wetsuit — UK July water temperatures average 18–20°C and wetsuit use is likely permitted
• Prepare your nutrition strategy in advance and stick to it — the Outlaw course demands consistent fuelling from hour one
• Rack your bike with your gear bags prepared and practice T1/T2 runs mentally beforehand
• Book accommodation early — Nottingham hotels within 10 miles fill up months before race day
• Train on rolling terrain in your final 8 weeks to prepare for the bike course demands

The Outlaw is a special race with a community spirit unlike any other long course event in the UK. Whether you are chasing a finish or a PB, racing at Holme Pierrepont is an experience every British triathlete should have on their list.