Top five fall destination races

With most triathlons falling in the summer months, it can be hard for Canadian triathletes to make their race season last as long as possible. If you want to make the most of a great season and squeeze in one more race before winter, consider a fall destination race. For many, it may be too late to plan a fall trip for this year. But these seven great fall destination races should stay on your radar for next year, especially since registration opens soon for many of them.

1) Great Floridian Endurance Festival

For residents of eastern Canada, Florida is within driving distance so getting there isn’t as costly as flying overseas. This triathlon festival has been a favourite among local and international triathletes for over 10 years. It features the second-oldest full distance race in the United States and with relay, open water swim and aqua-bike options, there’s something for everyone. There is also a unique “1/3 triathlon” which will give you the chance to race a new distance. The event takes place in Clermont, Florida with a swim in the beautiful Lake Minneola and a run that covers some beautiful trails. With its proximity to Orlando and Disney World, this is a great way to combine racing with a family-friendly vacation.

2) Challenge Paguera-Mallorca

Mallorca, Spain is known for its diverse geographical landscapes and beauty. Take advantage of the Mediterranean climate for this great end of season race. For those that love a challenge, this race is perfect as the bike course is full of steep hills and the run changes terrain several times throughout the course. Mallorca’s coastal scenery is some of the most beautiful in the world so this half distance race can double as an opportunity to travel to a bucket-list destination.

3) Bali International Triathlon

If you want to travel to a truly exotic location for a great fall race, consider Bali International Triathlon. With Olympic and sprint distances, this race is catered to all levels. Jimbaran, Bali is a tourist-friendly destination with beautiful beaches and lots of outdoor activities to take advantage of on race weekend. The race has always been popular, but has made improvements this year in order to remain a top choice for the 1,200 local and international triathletes it hosts every year.

4) Superfrog

This Ironman 70.3 event takes place in Coronado, California and is the oldest and longest-running half distance race in the world. It was originally created as a training event for those attempting Kona. With a swim in the Pacific Ocean, a fast and flat bike course along the coastline and mixed terrain run, there is lots to look forward to. The region is known for great golf courses and luxury resorts which make it a popular vacation spot as well.

5) Challenge Florianopolis

The Challenge family’s first Latin American event, Florianopolis is one of the fastest races in the world so if you’re looking for a half distance PB, this is the race for you. Santa Catarina, Brazil is a great destination for outdoor sports so there is plenty to do besides racing if you want to turn your trip into a longer fall vacation. A bike course along a highway and a run through a beautiful, shaded neighbourhood are just a few unique features of the race. The waters are calm at this time of year and it’s the beginning of summer for the southern hemisphere so you can expect ideal racing weather. The race weekend also features a kids event and a women-only run.