The Ironman California triathlon began in Sacramento with a swim, bike ride, and marathon, drawing thousands of athletes and spectators to the state capital.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
The Ironman California triathlon brought more than 3,500 athletes to Sacramento, starting with a 2.4-mile downriver swim and ending with a marathon in front of the California State Capitol.
The event began with a cannon blast at 7 a.m., signaling the start of the swim. Every five seconds, four athletes entered the water, guided by volunteers.
“You’re ready? You’re ready? Get it!” one volunteer said.
It took a little over an hour for all participants to enter the water, swimming through the Sacramento and American Rivers to reach the next leg of the race.
Music and volunteers welcomed athletes at the bike transition, where some were fortunate to find loved ones cheering them on.
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The bike portion, the longest leg of the triathlon, covers 112 miles through scenic farm, delta, and wine country.
The final leg is a 26.2-mile marathon along river trails, ending at the finish line in front of California’s State Capitol.
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