The Ironman Triathlon returns to the shores of Majorca next week so, to celebrate the most anticipated sporting event of the year, we, at the Piscis Adults-Only Hotel, want to see what you actually know about the world’s most famous triathlon: What makes it unique to other triathlons, how did it all start, why it chose Majorca as one of its destinations, what are the top unforgettable moments of this event over the past 40 years? Join us on a trip down memory lane…

First of all, let’s start with what Ironman is all about. Ironman is a race combination of three of the most difficult individual sports you can do: swimming (1.9km), cycling (90km) and running (21km). The objective of this nonstop course is for participants to challenge themselves to the maximum; knowing their limits and exceeding them and practicing true discipline, commitment and unwavering effort.

This way of thinking is what led to the first Ironman event in Hawaii in 1978. There, a young John Collins, a member of the Waikiki Swim Club, was attending an awards ceremony when, over a discussion with his friends about which kind of athlete is the fittest (swimmers, runners or cyclists), the idea of a triathlon struck him. He got on stage and proposed the idea of organising one there in Hawaii: “The gun would go off and the clock keep running and whoever finishes first, well, we’d call them the Ironman”. To this everyone laughed and his idea was well received, much to his utmost delight.

Collins, along with many of his friends, took part in the very first Ironman and then, after its popularity grew immensely, the following years saw worldwide recognition after John and his wife Judy allowed ABC’s programme, ‘Wide World of Sports’, to film the event. One of the most iconic moments in the history of this tournament is when Julie Moss, a university student at the time, collapses only metres away from the finish line. Refusing to give up, she crawls to the finish line and completes the course spectacularly, before the flabbergasted sea of spectators. Thereafter, the triathlon grew to just about every continent of the world and is now considered the number one goal of many triathletes, even your little ones! Many of the Ironman events also include Ironmankids, an opportunity for kids to get involved and enjoy the sportive atmosphere. Here, children take part in a mix of athletic and relaxing activities, in addition to learning about healthy living and enjoying the great outdoors.

An Ironman Majorca participant completing the 1.9km swim course

So why Majorca, or, more specifically, why Alcudia? Alcudia beach boasts miles of crystal-clear water and white-sand, making it perfect for the swim course. In addition, the north of Majorca is an attractive mix of long tricky roads, challenging terrain and flat stretches; making it the perfect spot for the cycling and running courses.

In addition to the exciting atmosphere and sportive spirit, you can come and join the opening and closing parties on 12 May to wish the participants good luck and celebrate their achievements. For all other info regarding this grand event, visit the official website of Ironman Majorca or ask our team at the Piscis Adults-Only Hotel. Good luck!