Katrine Græsbøll Christensen Wins Ironman Kalmar 2025 – With a New Course Record!
On Saturday, August 16th, 2,350 triathletes from around the world competed in Ironman Kalmar 2025. The event attracts both professional and amateur athletes and runs throughout the entire day, from early morning to late evening. This year’s race was won by Katrine Græsbøll Christensen from Denmark, who set a new women’s course record with a time of 8 hours, 27 minutes, and 49 seconds.
Race Highlights
The race started at 6:45 AM in Tullhamnen, with a high-energy atmosphere and a large crowd in attendance. Athletes were expected to cross the finish line at Stortorget around 11:30 PM.
Competitive Landscape
The professional women’s race featured intense competition, including last year’s winner Marlene de Boer from the Netherlands, and Chelsea Sodaro from the USA, a former Ironman World Champion.
Race Progression
British Hannah Munday and Chelsea Sodaro led the swimming segment with a 2-minute and 32-second lead. De Boer took the lead during the cycling portion, gaining a 4-minute and 31-second advantage before the running segment.
Victory and Record
Christensen strategically overtook de Boer at the 25.1-kilometer mark during the running segment and maintained her lead to win the race. She beat the previous year’s record by an impressive 12 minutes.
Final Results – Professional Women
- Katrine Græsbøll Christensen (Denmark) – 08:27:49
- Marlene de Boer (Netherlands) – 08:33:02
- Chelsea Sodaro (USA) – 08:45:42
”We know that the audience in Kalmar and Öland always manages to create a magical atmosphere for triathletes, but I’m still surprised every year. The atmosphere is palpable!” – Marcus Larssen, Head of Events and Meetings at Destination Kalmar
Ironman Kalmar 2025 Facts
- Sold out 146 days in advance
- 2,350 triathletes at the starting line
- 72% participating in Ironman Kalmar for the first time
- Highest percentage of international athletes to date (51%)
- Athletes from 69 countries
Recently, Kalmar won gold in three categories at the Ironman Athletes’ Choice Awards: total event satisfaction, most recommended Ironman race, and best running course.
