Notable sprint distance triathlons in North America
These events are popular and well-organized, offering participants a mix of urban and scenic environments. Keep in mind that exact distances may vary slightly between events, and availability or details might change from year to year. It’s always best to check the official websites for the most up-to-date information on dates, registration, and specific course details.
New York City Triathlon
Urban course with a swim in the Hudson River, bike on the Henry Hudson Parkway, and run in Central Park.
Location: New York City, NY, USA
Date: Usually held in July
Distances (Olympic):
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- Swim: 1500m (0.93 miles) in the Hudson River
- Bike: 40km (24.8 miles) on the Henry Hudson Parkway
- Run: 10km (6.2 miles) in Central Park
Key Features:
Urban course offering a unique city triathlon experience
Point-to-point swim with the current in the Hudson River
Closed roads for the cycling portion on a major highway
Iconic run through Central Park
Notes:
Known for its challenging nature due to summer heat and humidity
Typically attracts around 4,000 participants
Often includes a professional division with prize money
Offers great spectator viewing opportunities throughout the course
Additional Info:
Organized by Lifetime Fitness
Wetsuit use is dependent on water temperature on race day
Transition areas are split between two locations due to the urban setting
Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon
While not a standard sprint distance, it’s shorter than an Olympic distance. Features a challenging swim from Alcatraz Island to shore.
Location: San Francisco, CA, USA
Date: Usually held in June
Distances:
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- Swim: 1.5 miles (2.4 km) from Alcatraz Island to shore
- Bike: 18 miles (29 km)
- Run: 8 miles (13 km)
Key Features:
Iconic swim from Alcatraz Island to the St. Francis Yacht Club
Challenging bike course through the Presidio
Run course includes the infamous “Sand Ladder”
Notes:
Limited to approximately 2,000 participants
Water temperatures typically around 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C)
Strong currents in the San Francisco Bay add to the swim challenge
Lottery system for entry due to high demand
Additional Info:
Organized by IMG
Professional and age-group divisions
Wet suits are allowed and recommended due to cold water
The event typically sells out quickly once registration opens
Toronto Triathlon Festival
While not a standard sprint distance, it’s shorter than an Olympic distance. Features a challenging swim from Alcatraz Island to shore.
Location: Toronto, ON, Canada
Date: Usually held in July
Distances (Sprint):
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- Swim: 750m in Lake Ontario
- Bike: 20km on the Gardiner Expressway
- Run: 5km along the Toronto waterfront
Key Features:
Urban course with scenic views of Toronto skyline
Rare opportunity to cycle on a major expressway
Multiple race distances offered (Sprint and Olympic)
Notes:
Usually attracts both elite and amateur athletes
Part of the course runs through Exhibition Place
Often includes a relay option for teams
Additional Info:
Organized by MultiSport Canada
The event often includes a Health and Wellness Expo
Water temperatures in Lake Ontario can be chilly, typically around 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C) in July
The flat course makes it appealing for beginners and those looking for fast times
Nautica Malibu Triathlon
Celebrity participants, ocean swim in the Pacific, and scenic bike and run courses along the Malibu coast.
Location: Malibu, CA, USA
Date: Usually held in September
Distances (Classic Distance):
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- Swim: 1/2 mile (0.8 km) in the Pacific Ocean
- Bike: 17 miles (27.3 km) along the Pacific Coast Highway
- Run: 4 miles (6.4 km) on Zuma Beach
Key Features:
Beautiful coastal setting with beach swim
Scenic bike ride on the famous Pacific Coast Highway
Often attracts celebrity participants
Raises funds for pediatric cancer research at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles
Notes:
Offers both Classic and Olympic distances
Known for its laid-back, “California cool” atmosphere
Water temperatures typically around 65°F to 70°F (18°C to 21°C)
The event often sells out, with around 5,000 participants across all races
Additional Info:
Organized by Motiv Sports
Includes individual and relay team options
Features a “Celebrity Division” which has included stars from film, TV, and sports
The flat course and typically mild weather conditions make it appealing for triathletes of all levels