New swim route, tougher climbs await 1,900 athletes at Ironman Malaysia in Langkawi from Nov 19 to 22

Detailed summary

A total of 1,900 athletes from 65 countries will face new challenges when Ironman Malaysia returns to Langkawi from November 19 to 22, with changes to ...

ALOR SETAR, Nov 11 — A total of 1,900 athletes from 65 countries will face new challenges when Ironman Malaysia returns to Langkawi from November 19 to 22, with changes to the swimming and cycling routes among the main highlights of this year’s edition.

The four-day endurance sporting event comprises three categories, namely Ironman Malaysia, Ironman 70.3 Langkawi and Ironkids Langkawi, with the two main races scheduled to take place on November 21.

Ironman Malaysia Race Director Fauzy Famir said Malaysia once again recorded the highest number of participants, followed by Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom and Indonesia, while Australia, Thailand, India, Germany and France completed the list of the 10 countries with the highest participation.

“Among the major changes this year is the introduction of a new swimming route at Pantai Tengah, where participants will start the race in waters near Holiday Villa Resort & Beachclub Langkawi, against the backdrop of the beautiful coastline and nearby Pulau Tepur.

“For the cycling route, participants will pass through Pantai Tengah towards Teluk Baru and Jalan Bukit Malut, offering coastal views, shaded stretches and several challenging climbs,” he said in a statement today.

Fauzy said participants in the full-distance Ironman Malaysia would have to tackle a cycling route with a total elevation gain of approximately 1,761 metres (m), compared with 969m for Ironman 70.3 Langkawi participants.

“Ironman Malaysia participants must complete a 3.8-kilometre (km) swim, 180km cycling leg and 42.2km marathon, while Ironman 70.3 Langkawi participants must swim 1.9km, cycle 90km and run 21.1km.

“These route changes are aimed at providing participants with a fresher race experience while showcasing Langkawi’s natural beauty. The enhancements are expected to offer athletes a different racing experience,” he said.

Meanwhile, Fauzy said this year’s event also comes on the back of Langkawi’s international recognition through the Ironman Athlete…

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