The first ever Ironman 70.3 Greece, Costa Navarino
More than 4,500 athletes, visitors and volunteers came to the Peloponnese and Costa Navarino to participate in an amazing triathlon race and to enjoy the Messinian hospitality and unspoiled natural beauty of the region. Ironman 70.3 Greece, Costa Navarino was the biggest triathlon, bike race and open water swimming competition ever held in Greece, with more than 1,500 athletes from 61 countries competing in 1.9 km. swimming, 90 km. cycling and 21 km. running. In 4:22’28’’ the first “Ironman”, Ernesto Espinoza, crossed the finish line at The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort at Costa Navarino.
Athletes embarked on a 1.9 km swim race in the Ionian Sea, starting from the pristine beach of Navarino Dunes.
They continued with cycling, on a ride from Navarino Dunes to Soulinari and they headed to Gargaliani village and back to Navarino Dunes, through ancient olive groves and pine-covered hills, while never losing site of the deep blue of the Ionian Sea.
Without any breaks, they set foot for the half marathon, starting from The Westin Resort Costa Navarino towards Voidokilia beach and Gialova lagoon, passed through cobblestone roads of the nearby villages, before heading back to the finish line at The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort at Costa Navarino.
Juliana Villasante from Mexico and Ernesto Espinoza from Costa Rica were the winners of the first IRONMAN 70.3 Greece, Costa Navarino, while Greek athletes were also among the fastest of the race.
From Costa Rica to Costa Navarino, winner Ernesto Espinoza, said: “I am very happy with the result. Ironman 70.3 Greece, Costa Navarino was a very powerful experience in many ways. We had to battle with Grigoris Souvatzoglou right up to 2 km before the finish line. I am excited about my win and very impressed with the warm and friendly atmosphere. “
“It was a demanding race, with rough sea and a highly technical bike leg, but in an impressive landscape. It is the first time that I visit Greece and I am really impressed by the place, the people and the hospitality. It’s a race that I will definitely suggest to anyone who is interested to run the distance.” said the winner Juliana Villasante.
Athletes may find their personal race photos here.