Croatia to host its first Ironman – and one of the world’s most scenic

The iconic challenge comes to Croatia for the very first time on 16 October 2022, with each of the three disciplines offering spectacular enroute views of Poreč, Funtana and Višnjan.

Croatia’s entire Ironman 70.3 route will be set against the scenic backdrop of some of the country’s loveliest towns. Announced by Istrian-based hospitality and tourism group, Plava Laguna, its panoramic cycling track will cover 90km, mostly on the Istrian Y highway. Its lower altitude, combined with relaxed speeding conditions, give quality terrain and the perfect conditions to achieve a PB.

Says Goran Vrus, race director: ”A growing number of world races integrate cycling tracks on the highways, so it is of great importance to us to be ahead of the new trends. The main purpose of Ironman races is to conquer yourself. Plava Laguna team will raise the bar to ensure even better accolades for organisation. Ironman 70.3 is the first one yet, after two successful triathlon races, so we are committed to showcase our excellence in arranging longer races.”

The historic town of Poreč – which will host the 1.9km swim – is soaked in a rich past and is home to the UNESCO-protected Euphrasius Basilica. Popular with tourists for its antique charm, the seaside town boasts crystal-clear waters and 20% of all Blue Flag beaches in Croatia.

The route heads onto Funtana, a small coastal town along the Porec-Vrsar-Orsera road, where friendly locals are excited by the prospect of welcoming competitors to relax and refuel post-race in family-run accommodation and enjoy home-made dishes.

Višnjan – next up on the route – is a rural inland idyll that offers peace, clean air and beautiful scenery. The streets of the old town are well preserved and steeped in the tradition of the ancient past.

Organisers are honoured to attract participants for the chance to experience some of the loveliest scenery in Croatia during an Ironman challenge. Comments Dragan Pujas, president of the management board of Plava Laguna: ”We are witnessing a steep rise of interest in sports challenges and competitions globally, which will undoubtedly contribute to the promotion of the town of Poreč, Istria and Croatia.”

The winner of the Plava Laguna Ironman 70.3 will win the opportunity to compete at the World Championships on 26-27 August 2023 in Lahti, Finland.

Registration for Plava Laguna Ironman 70.3 is now open at https://www.ironman.com/im703-croatia