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

Ranks Top 3 for Overall Satisfaction and Swim Course

The IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri-Cities race has received international recognition in the 2025 IRONMAN® Athletes’ Choice Awards. Tri-Cities was named the Best Run Course in the world among all IRONMAN® 70.3® events. The race also ranked #3 in Overall Satisfaction and #3 for Best Swim Course in North America, based on post-race surveys from participating athletes.

The IRONMAN® Athletes’ Choice Awards are determined solely by athlete feedback, with nearly 30,000 survey responses collected from events across the global IRONMAN® and IRONMAN® 70.3® race calendar. The rankings highlight the races that provide the most outstanding overall experience — from course design and scenic views to event organization and community support. Out of more than 114 IRONMAN® 70.3® races worldwide, IRONMAN® 70.3® Washington Tri-Cities was recognized as having the top-rated run course in the entire global 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.

The Tri-Cities’ 13.1-mile run course takes athletes along paved riverfront trails beside the Columbia River. The course is flat and fast, with great spectator access and a high-energy finish at Columbia Point Park. Athletes regularly praise the supportive community and scenic views, which make the final stretch 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.

“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.”

Since its debut in 2024, 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.

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.visittricities.com/events/signature/ironman/