Ottawa to host Ironman Triathlon in 2025

Ottawa hosting 2025 Ironman One of the most gruelling athletic challenges in the world is coming to Ottawa next year. CTV's Tyler Fleming reports.

The city of Ottawa will be hosting the Ironman Canada Triathlon in 2025.

It will be the first full-distance Ironman event to be held in Ottawa. The event is scheduled to take place Aug. 3, 2025.

"We are thrilled to announce this new partnership with Ottawa and bring Ironman Canada-Ottawa, one of our most historic race franchises, to the Canadian capital," said Ironman VP of North American operations Keats McGonigal in a news release. "Ottawa offers the quintessential Canadian race environment with a plethora of outdoor activities, great weather and a mosaic of culture all nestled at the very seat of government. Ironman Canada has played a prominent role in the history of Ironman and will continue with the expansion to Ottawa. We are enthusiastic and excited to see what futures hold here in Ottawa, Ontario."

The triathlon will begin at Britannia Beach, with a 3.8-kilometre two-loop swim in the Ottawa River.

From there, the 180-km bike portion will run along NCC and city roads, including the Kichi Zibi Mikan, the Queen Elizabeth Driveway, Laurier Avenue, Nicholas Street, Sussex Drive, and the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway. Roads will be closed to traffic for the event.

"One of the really unique selling points for this race in particular is it's highly urban," said Ironman regional director Dave Christen. "To be able to race in front of Parliament like we are, to be able to finish eventually in front of Parliament as well, to pass through the city streets of this great capital city."

Finally, the marathon run will begin at Parliament Hill, run along Wellington Street before looping to head south on Colonel By Drive alongside the Rideau Canal to Hog's Back and then back up the Queen Elizabeth Driveway to Parliament Hill.

"I am thrilled to welcome the Ironman Canada competition to Ottawa," said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. "I love this city and so will you. There are so many triathletes in Ottawa. And it's an absolutely stunning and beautiful place to swim, bike and run. It's also the perfect location for outdoor adventures and world class events, especially an event as prestigious as Ironman Canada. Ottawa is a great place for this amazing competition. Everyone from athletes to families, friends and fans will have an amazing race experience here. I look forward to seeing everyone here in August 2025."

Sutcliffe told CTV News he does not intend to compete in the Ottawa Ironman. While he's an avid marathon runner, who will be running the London Marathon during a trade mission abroad, he said his mayoral responsibilities prevent him from training for this triathlon.

"I would love to, if I could, but training for an Ironman is a completely different level of training than training for a marathon and I don't have that kind of time unfortunately, so I'll be there cheering people on," he said.

General registration opens April 22 on the Ironman website. The Ironman Canada-Ottawa triathlon, part of the VinFast Ironman North America Series, will offer qualifying slots to the 2026 VinFast Ironman World Championship.

Rick Hellard, who has competed in Ironman events, says it takes a lot of effort to prepare.

"The actual race day isn't that bad," Hellard said. "It's the getting ready for it, all the preparation, because it takes years to get there and it's being consistent with the training."

The event is also expected to provide a major tourism boost for the city, bringing top athletes and their families to the capital.

"This event showcases the resilience and determination of athletes from far and wide, leaving a legacy of excellence in our city," said Ottawa Tourism president and CEO Michael Crockatt. "We're confident about this partnership and believe this will significantly contribute to our local economy, grow our sports tourism market, inspire our community, and further showcase our ability to host world-class events. Ottawa's scenic landscapes and vibrant communities are ready to welcome participants and spectators alike for an unforgettable experience."

Turn by turn directions

Bike course

Exact transition area is still being determined and right now it shows on Wellington St. This remains to be determined but it will be in and around this general area within 800 meters.

Run course

Athletes will notice the bike, run and finish are all planned for Wellington St. Ironman has different versions of the plan still being vetted out and will have updates as it completes those discussions.

--With files from CTV News Ottawa's Tyler Fleming.