Everything You Need To Know About Racing The IRONMAN 70.3 Santa Cruz

Are you racing (or thinking about racing) the Ironman 70.3 Santa Cruz? If so, you've come to the right place. Our triathlon team - the TCMTriSquad - has a huge cluster of athletes who live in Santa Cruz that have raced this 70.3 course many times. Head coach Martin Spierings has coached many athletes to success on this course, so in this blog we've consolidated all the resources we've created over the years, to help prepare you for this race.

Five tips to have your best 70.3 race:

We break down the course and detail common things triathletes do that make them lose time or waste energy. Learn what NOT to do and good alternatives.

Link here: https://www.tricoachmartin.com/post/5-don-ts-for-the-santa-cruz-triathlon

Two weeks before the 70.3:

There are some organizational things you can't leave until the last days of the 70.3 (or any Ironman). Learn from mistakes already made!

Link here: https://www.tricoachmartin.com/post/things-to-do-two-weeks-before-your-70-3-or-ironman

Nutrition for a 70.3:

Dialing in your nutrition is so important. If you don't have a plan, you will probably bonk! Learn how you can simplify your nutrition strategy (for cheap!).

Link here: https://www.tricoachmartin.com/post/half-ironman-race-nutrition-for-the-cheap-triathlete

Racing in the heat:

September can have some really hot days in Santa Cruz. In 2022, the temps got in the 80s... if you aren't used to racing in these conditions, the heat could completely ruin your race. For slower athletes or those who delay their start time (read our opinion about Ironman's rolling start times here) you will be out on course, in the heat, for much longer. Be prepared with these strategies:

Link here: https://www.tricoachmartin.com/post/racing-in-the-heat-tips-and-tricks

Wearing swim accessories for the swim?

The legality of wearing thermal caps, socks or gloves depends on whether it's a USA Triathlon or Ironman branded event and also the style of sock or glove. Ironman tends to be more strict compared to USA Triathlon's rules. Make sure you don't make any mistakes during the 70.3!

Link here: https://www.tricoachmartin.com/post/can-i-wear-thermal-caps-socks-booties-or-gloves-in-triathlon

Have questions or want guidance? Schedule a virtual triathlon coaching consultation with Martin Spierings.

Want to be on a team of supportive athletes? Join the TCMTriSquad from anywhere in the world.