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
- 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.