Battle of the fittest: Busselton Ironman

This is no ordinary competition. This is an epic battle of physicality, endurance, mental toughness, and the result of months of disciplined training.

This is Ironman. And it’s held right here in Busselton, in the South West of Western Australia, each December.

Here are five reasons why the race is so special amongst a sea of other sporting events.

It is a worldwide phenomenon

First held in 1978 in Hawaii, Ironman now has more than 150 qualifying races in 50+ countries across the globe, from Argentina to Bahrain, Malaysia to Sweden. Busselton has hosted this event since 2002, and it’s only getting more popular each year. This year, organisers expect around 2000 athletes to arrive on our shores, plus many, many more spectators.

Loads of support and training to become an ‘Ironman’

Sure, there are lots of events that you can join and simply turn up on race day –

maybe they even have a Facebook page or group to follow. But Ironman is different. It’s almost like a club membership. A huge number of resources are available for competitors and potential competitors; for example, the Ultimate Ironman Training Guide.

If you sign up for Ironman in 2020, you will have access to a complimentary 24-week training guide put together by Ironman coaches, the Class of 2020 Facebook group, beginner training content, videos, e-newsletters, Q&A seminars, and more. It’s worth planning ahead and enrolling so you receive all these extras.

Read more about the Busselton Ironman

Kids can compete

While the main event is for adults aged 18 and above, there is a great Ironkids event for those aged 7 to 13. Children aged 7 to 11 will complete a course with a 100m swim, 2.25km bike and 1km run, while 11 to 13-year-olds will tackle a 200m swim, 4.5km bike and 2km run. The school group with the most participants will be awarded a $1000 prize, too.

Spectator VIP finish line experience

With such large crowds of people cheering on the athletes, why not grab yourself a great viewing spot plus enjoy a few extras thrown? Register for the VIP package to get finger food and drinks provided from 9.30am to 12.00pm, text messages to keep you up to date with how your athlete is going, plus you’ll be given a medal and towel to present to your athlete on the red carpet.

Ranked in the top five for overall satisfaction

The Busselton course is much loved for being flat and fast. In fact, the event was rated fifth for overall satisfaction by previous competitors – not bad, considering there are literally hundreds of Ironman races around the world.

Thinking of competing in the Busselton Ironman?

Are you up to the challenge? This course covers a 3.8km swim, 180km bike, and a 42.2km run.

Register now at ironman.com. Your fee covers all the gear including bib, bike number and ID wrist band, plus course information and finisher products. There are always pre-race events such as bike racking (compulsory) and practice swims.

Doubting your abilities? If you think this is a physical battle best left for those in their twenties, think again. The average age around the world is 41. And one in four participants are women, with this number growing each year.

Homes perfect for watching the Busselton Ironman

Busselton is perfect this time of year. The weather is warm with big, blue skies, a hint of summer is in the air, and you have all the facilities available to make this a fantastic getaway.

Out of the Blue, on the shores of Geographe Bay, Busselton

Browse our portfolio to find the perfect holiday home for your escape to Busselton.

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