I am considering a full ironman. My swim is really slow. Do these races have swim cutoff times that you have to be in by? If so, what is it?

Bill from Tennessee

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Hi Bill,
Thank you for contacting TriathaNewbie.com.

We did some research and found that more and more Ironman races have adopted cut-off times, but they are not all the same. For instance, Ironman Florida's cut-off times are: Swim: 2 hours and 20 minutes, Swim/Bike: 10 hours and 30 minutes, Swim/Bike/Run: 17 hours. Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 FAQ lists: Swim: 1:00 after final swim start; Bike: 4:30 after final swim start; Finish: 7:30 after final swim start.

We suggest that you find some races in your area that you want to participate in (we can help). From there, call the race organizers or check their websites to find out what the cut-off times are. Then train for the race or pick a race that you are already qualified for.

The reason why cut-off times are now the norm is because more and more unprepared triathletes are signing up for triathlons and unable to finish them within a reasonable timeframe. Race organizers are required to have permits to run public events (block off street, use public parks, etc); have to hire police to direct traffic; and have to coordinate officiators and volunteers for the event. Start and End times are required or they can risk their good-standing status with the town.

Please let us know if you have any other questions.

Be well.
~Jack

Jack Shaw
TriathaNewbie.com

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