Ironman 70.3 Northern California: Your Guide to the Redding Triathlon
Exciting news for sports enthusiasts and regional tourism! Redding, a vibrant city just a short drive from Sacramento, is set to host its first-ever Ironman 70.3 triathlon on Sunday, August 16, 2026. This prestigious event, a powerful affirmation of the city’s growing momentum, promises a challenging course and significant community engagement for the Shasta Cascade region.
Redding Joins the Global Ironman Stage
Following a unanimous 5-0 vote by the Redding City Council in October, the city will join a select group of venues worldwide contracted to host Ironman triathlons. This multi-year agreement brings a world-class endurance event to Northern California, spanning three consecutive years from 2026 to 2028. It highlights Redding’s strong recreation culture and welcoming community, making it an ideal new home for the Ironman 70.3 Northern California.
The Scenic Course: Swim, Bike, and Run Through Shasta County
Athletes participating in the Ironman 70.3 Northern California will experience a truly breathtaking course designed to showcase the beauty of Redding and its surrounding natural landscapes. Planners collaborated with Redding and federal agencies to plot a route that highlights the region’s appeal.
The Swim: Whiskeytown Lake
The triathlon kicks off with a 1.2-mile sunrise swim in the clear waters of Whiskeytown Lake. This picturesque setting offers a serene start before the intensity of the subsequent legs.
The Bike: Shasta County’s Rolling Terrain
The second leg features a challenging yet rewarding 56-mile bike ride through scenic Shasta County. Cyclists will navigate rolling terrain with panoramic views and smooth roads, benefiting from a net elevation loss that makes for fast racing conditions.
The Run: Sacramento River Trail & Sundial Bridge
The final 13.1-mile run takes athletes onto the beloved Sacramento River Trail. Runners will cross the iconic Sundial Bridge and loop through Redding’s riverfront parks, culminating in an exciting finish line in downtown Redding.
Economic Impact and Community Investment
While hosting an international event like the Ironman 70.3 is projected to boost tourism and bring significant exposure to Shasta County, city officials acknowledge the costs involved. The city will incur expenses for essential services such as security, medical staff, law enforcement hours, parking, trash pickup, and street cleaning. Interim City Manager Steve Bade estimated these services could cost the city anywhere from $250,000 to $500,000 per event, drawing comparisons to other large local events like Kool April Nites.
However, the tourism promotion organization Choose Redding Lodging has committed to supporting the event, offering to pay the city a total of $630,500 over the three-year period. This breaks down to $200,000 to $220,500 per event, helping to offset the city’s operational costs. Councilwoman Erin Resner highlighted that despite the “heavy lift” personnel-wise, the opportunity to showcase Redding on a global stage makes the endeavor worthwhile.
| Financial Aspect | Details (Per Event) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Estimated City Service Costs | $250,000 – $500,000 | Interim City Manager Steve Bade |
| Choose Redding Lodging Contribution | $200,000 – $220,500 | Choose Redding Lodging |
| Event Contract Duration | Three annual events (2026-2028) | Redding City Council |
What to Watch Next
Mark your calendars! Registration for the inaugural Ironman 70.3 Northern California opens on November 13. Athletes from across California and around the world are expected to sign up swiftly for this new challenge. Beyond the race itself, the event is set to foster a deeper appreciation for Redding’s recreational assets and its capacity to host major events, drawing visitors who might otherwise overlook the region.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Redding Ironman 70.3
- When is the Ironman 70.3 Northern California?
The first event is scheduled for Sunday, August 16, 2026. - Where does the race take place in Redding?
The race features a swim in Whiskeytown Lake, a bike ride through Shasta County, and a run on the Sacramento River Trail, finishing in downtown Redding. - How can athletes register?
Registration opens on November 13 and can be completed online at ironman.com/races/im703-northern-california. - What does “Ironman 70.3” mean?
The “70.3” refers to the total distance in miles an athlete covers: a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run. - What’s the expected economic impact on Redding?
While the city anticipates costs for services (estimated at $250,000-$500,000 per event), significant revenue from tourism and a $200,000-$220,500 contribution per event from Choose Redding Lodging are expected to boost the local economy and showcase the city globally.
Whether you’re an aspiring triathlete or simply looking for a new adventure, the Ironman 70.3 Northern California offers a fantastic reason to visit Redding and witness a world-class event right in our backyard.
Redding Lands First Ironman Northern California
