IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri‑Cities Named Best Run Course in the World in 2025 Athletes’ Choice Awards

IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri-Cities, presented by Cuisine Solutions, has earned international recognition in the 2025 IRONMAN® Athletes’ Choice Awards, receiving Best Run Course in the world among all IRONMAN® 70.3® events. In addition, the Tri-Cities race ranked #3 in Overall Satisfaction and #3 Best Swim Course in North America, as determined by athlete post-race surveys.

The IRONMAN® Athletes’ Choice Awards are based entirely on feedback from approximately 30,000 survey respondents across the global IRONMAN® and IRONMAN® 70.3® race calendar. The rankings reflect the races that deliver the most exceptional overall experiences, from course design and scenic beauty to organization and community support. Among more than 114 IRONMAN® 70.3® races worldwide, IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri-Cities was named the top-rated run course in the global series.

The Tri-Cities’ 13.1-mile run course follows paved riverfront trails along the Columbia River, offering a flat, fast layout with strong spectator access and a high-energy finish at Columbia Point Park. Athletes consistently praise the supportive community and scenic views that make the final leg of the race both memorable and motivating.

“This recognition is a powerful reminder of the amazing assets we have in our community. To be ranked the best run course in the world and Top 3 for both Overall Satisfaction and Swim Course tells you just how great this destination is,” said Kevin Lewis, President & CEO of Visit Tri-Cities. “These recognitions reflect not only the beauty of our riverfront and course design, but also the incredible volunteers, partners, and community members who create an unforgettable experience for every athlete.”

The swim course (ranked #3 in North America) features a 1.2-mile downriver swim in the Columbia River, recognized for its smooth flow and athlete-friendly conditions. Combined with a scenic 56-mile bike ride through Richland and West Richland, the event showcases the region’s natural beauty while delivering a world-class competitive experience.

In the official IRONMAN® announcement, the Tri-Cities event was recognized as the Best Run Course in the global IRONMAN® 70.3® Series. The awards also honored events in destinations such as Australia, Austria, and Colombia, placing the Tri-Cities alongside some of the most iconic race locations in the world. These recognitions highlight the exceptional race venues and passionate host communities that create unforgettable experiences for athletes worldwide.

Since its debut, IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri-Cities has drawn thousands of athletes and visitors from across the United States and around the world, generating millions in visitor spending and elevating the Tri-Cities’ profile as a premier sports tourism destination.

“Recognition like this positions the Tri-Cities on a global stage,” Lewis added. “Athletes are telling the world that this race delivers and that has lasting impact for our community.”

Planning is already underway for the next IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri-Cities, set for Sunday, September 20, 2026, as organizers build on the momentum of these global rankings.

For more information about IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri-Cities, visit: https://www.visittri-cities.co...