How much does it really cost to compete in a full distance Ironman race?

Illustrations by Lara Intong

As we’re finally hosting an Ironman, thousands are getting ready to race the 140.6-mile triathlon in Subic. This race is not for the faint of heart. Aside from months of training and preparation, it also takes a toll on your finances. To give you an idea, here’s a breakdown of a regular participant’s expenses for the race.

Swim

Wetsuits are commonly used in cold climates but in this case, swimskins and skinsuits are alternatives for warmer countries.

Tri suit – P3,000 to P10,000
Swimskin or skinsuit – P7,800 to P15,000
Cap – Provided. These are color coded to differentiate pros, age groupers, females, and those with special needs
Goggles – P700 to P2,500
Antifog Spray – P300 to P500
Sunscreen – P500 to P1,500
Timing chip – Provided

Total: P12,300 to P29,500

Bike

Costs for bike gear vary because you can choose to use normal equipment or those specially made for triathlon. Aero helmets and tri bikes are more expensive because of the aerodynamic advantage they provide. Tri shoes are also more costly but can be worn easily and has ventilation.

Sunglasses – P2,000 to P15,000
Helmet -P3,000 to P18,000
Bike shoes – P4,000 to P15,000
Race belt – P200 to P1,000
Water bottle or hydration systems – P500 to P4,500
Bike – P30,000 to P450,000
Storage box or bag – P500 to P3,500
Repair equipment (consists of tyre levers, inner tubes, at least two CO2 canisters with valve/mini pump) – P500 to P2,000
Nutrition (energy gel or bar/salt sticks/electrolyte drinks) – P500 to P1,000

Total: P41,200 to P510,000

Run

Here's the run breakdown costs of racing an Ironman

Race shoes – P4,000 to P8,000
Hydration belt – P1,000 to P3,000
Cap or visor – P300 to P1,000
Easylaces/Quicklaces (no-tie laces) – P400 to P800

Total: P5,700 to P12,800

Registration fees vary if you’re a professional or a regular participant. For regulars and age groupers, it’s more or less $700 or roughly P36,000. Adding that up with the costs above, the total can range from P95,000 to P588,300.

Without counting all the other fees like transportation and the amount you spent during your training, it all adds up to a hefty price.