Chris McCormack to race Iceland’s Jarnmadurinn Triathlon

Australia’s former Ironman world champion looking forward to racing ’world’s northernmost middle-distance triathlon’

Published: July 22, 2015 at 9:00 am

Two-time Ironman World Champion Chris ‘Macca’ McCormack will be taking part in the inaugural Jarnmadurinn Triathlon in Hvalfjordur Bay, Iceland this August – the country’s first middle-distance race.

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The triathlon, which takes place on August 8th of this year, consists of a 1.9km swim in a freshwater glacial lake, followed by a 90km bike on the old main road, finishing with a 21km run on asphalt and gravel.

Most triathlons based in Iceland have been pool swims or short-distance triathlons because the Iceland's sea and lake temperatures are low, however organisers have extended the distance because of the increase in interest.

“I am delighted to come to Iceland and participate in this race," said McCormack. “I have wanted to come to Iceland for many years, this is a great opportunity to race there and discover the country. I am bringing my whole family, I think it’s going to be amazing."

The course is located 50km away from the capital Reykjavik, and takes participants through the lake Medalfellsvatn, into Hvalfjordur Bay and through Iceland’s scenic country roads.

Competitors will have to tackle a 770m elevation on the bike and face temperatures of14°C in the lake, which consists of water straight from a glacier.

Registration costs £45 and ends on August 7. If you’re interested in registering, or for more information please visit their website.

(Images: Viðar Þorsteinsson)

Will you be entering the Jarnmadurinn Triathlon? Let us know in the comments below!