The beautiful north Mallorcan resort of Alcudia was transformed into a spectacular sporting arena for one of the world’s toughest tests of endurance on May the 10th 2014.
Ironman 70.3 Mallorca attracted triathletes from all over the world who came to compete in an exciting three-sport competition which goes towards qualifying for the Ironman 70.3 final in Quebec, Canada later this year.
Ironman 70.3 is a series of long distance triathlon races organised by the World Triathlon Corporation. The 70.3 refers to the total length of the race in miles, and the competition features both amateur and professional triathletes.
As in all events of this kind, it greatly relies on help from volunteers, and local Mallorceans enthusiastically embraced the spectacle, giving up much of their time to ensure everything went smoothly.
You have to be in pretty good shape to take part in Ironman 70.3.
Triathletes begin with a 1.9km swimming race, followed by a 90km bike race followed by a 21km marathon run. (It’s exhausting just writing about it!)
A big turnout to cheer the triathletes on
Judging by the large crowds that turned up at 8am in the morning to see the start of the race, it was a huge success, helping to boost Mallorca’s global reputation as a ‘must do’ destination. (The competition was sponsored by travel agent Thomas Cook, which should also help strengthen Majorca’s tourism-based economy.)
Fortunately it was a glorious Saturday morning in Puerto de Alcudia. The triathletes with their skin-tight swimming costumes and sky blue swimming caps looked magnificent as they plunged into the crystal-clear waters of the bay for the first leg of the competition. Powering their way over the 1.9 km loop course, the swimmers instantly became cyclists when arriving back on shore.
Crowds lined the streets of Puerto de Alcudia clapping and cheering as the triathletes mounted their bikes for the challenging 90km cycle race. It was a real test of endurance too, taking in steep hills as well as flat stretches.
Weaving through the picturesque Tramuntana mountains of north Mallorca, the route took in Puerto de Alcudia, Puerto de Pollensa, Pollensa town, Lluc, Caimari, Campanet, Muro and Sa Pobla, before ending up back in Puerto de Alcudia. They were enthusiastically welcomed at the finishing line by spectators.
Another ‘first’ for Mallorca
But it wasn’t all over just yet. The climax of Ironman 70.3 Mallorca was the 21.1 km marathon run on a circuit course alongside Puerto de Alcudia’s lovely golden beach.
What an amazing spectacle Ironman 70.3 turned out to be. It was the first time Mallorca had hosted this international event and the island did itself proud.
To celebrate, In the afternoon there was a big barbecue on the beach followed by a splendid beach party in the evening!