Sweden’s Biggest Triathlon Week Starts Now!
This week, Kalmar will be hosting thousands of triathletes from around the world. It’s time for Sweden’s largest triathlon week, featuring three high-energy races. The highlight is the main event, Ironman Kalmar, taking place on Saturday, August 16th. The competition has been voted the world’s best Ironman event by participants themselves.
Event Details and Participants
The Ironman week kicks off on Wednesday, August 13th, with approximately 1,000 participants in the 4:18:4 Kalmar short-distance race. Two days later, the Ironkids running event for children takes place. On Saturday, August 16th, the full-distance Ironman Kalmar will feature 2,850 registered athletes from 69 countries.
This year, a record 51% of participants are international, with the strongest interest coming from the United Kingdom, Germany, Norway, and Belgium.
Race Overview
Athletes will begin with a 3.8-kilometer swim in Kalmarsund, followed by a 180-kilometer bicycle ride, and conclude with a marathon run through central Kalmar. Professional and amateur athletes will compete side by side, with a strong representation of female professionals.
Notable Participants
- Marlene de Boer from the Netherlands (last year’s winner)
- Chelsea Sodaro from the USA (previous world champion)
”After months of preparation, it’s fantastic to see Kalmar transform into a true Ironman city again,” says Magnus Nyberg, Race Director for Ironman Kalmar. ”We can welcome a previous world champion, which makes everything even more exciting.”
Economic and Community Impact
Marcus Larson from Destination Kalmar highlights the event’s broader importance: ”Ironman week is a wonderful community celebration that’s crucial for tourism. Athletes become ambassadors who share their experiences and inspire others to visit Kalmar and Öland.”
Quick Facts about Ironman Kalmar 2025
- Sold out 146 days in advance
- 72% of participants are first-time Kalmar Ironman competitors
- Highest percentage of international athletes to date
The event has previously won gold in three categories at the Ironman Athletes’ Choice Awards: overall event satisfaction, most recommended Ironman race, and best run course.
What is an Ironman?
An Ironman consists of:
• 3.8 km swimming
• 180 km cycling
• 42.2 km running (marathon)
