Ironman Discontinues Lake Tahoe Races

After an eventful three-year running of Ironmans in Lake Tahoe, it was revealed today that the races have been discontinued.

The events had a tumultuous history with near freezing conditions causing a 20% DNF rate in the inaugural event in 2013 (Ironman only) and poor air quality from wildfires causing the cancellation of the 2014 races (slated to be both 70.3 and Ironman). The 2015 races, which took place last Sunday, Sept. 20, were also in question during race week due to the possibility of poor air quality from area wildfires, but the air cleared and the event was able to go on. More than 2,000 total athletes competed in either the Ironman or 70.3 race.

Several peopled noticed that registration for the 2016 event did not open on Monday, and today Ironman posted the following statement on race websites.

“After careful consideration, Ironman/Ironman 70.3 Lake Tahoe will not be continued. We appreciate the efforts and support of the city, volunteers, sponsors, and everyone else involved in putting on this triathlon over the past eight years. We would also like to thank all of the athletes who have raced with us in Lake Tahoe.”