Ilkley Triathlon

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Ilkley Lido, the Ilkley Triathlon is scheduled to take place on Sunday, September 20th, 2026. This exciting race offers participants an engaging challenge with a unique blend of pool swimming and hilly cycling followed by a scenic run through some of Yorkshire's most charming streets.
The triathlon kicks off in the calm waters of Ilkley Lido, where athletes will complete a 500-meter swim (equivalent to twenty lengths). This segment is particularly welcoming for both novices and seasoned competitors alike. Following their time in the pool, participants transition onto open roads around Denton Road, Carter's Lane, Curly Hill, and Middleton Avenue for an exhilarating 15-kilometer bike ride that features a series of challenging hills. The cycling portion consists of three laps, offering riders plenty of opportunities to test their endurance on varied terrain.
After the demanding cycle leg, racers will head into a final stretch: a picturesque 5-kilometer run along familiar routes through Ilkley's town center and residential areas. This run not only serves as an excellent conclusion to the race but also provides runners with ample opportunity to enjoy the local scenery while pushing their limits.
The event is designed for athletes aged fifteen or older (as of December 31, 2026), making it accessible to a wide range of competitors from junior participants to seasoned triathletes. Teams are welcome too, provided that all members meet the age requirements: cyclists must be at least fifteen years old and swimmers/runners can join starting at fourteen.
Registration fees vary based on participant type; individual seniors pay £42 while juniors (under 20 as of December 31, 2026) are charged a reduced rate of £21. Team entries also cost £42 each. For non-members of British Triathlon, there is an additional requirement to purchase a Race Pass through the Entry Central process.
Participants have until Sunday, August 23rd at 9 PM (BST) to request refunds or transfers for their entry fees. Withdrawals before this deadline will receive partial refunds (£20 for individuals and teams; £10 for juniors), but no refunds are given after that point regardless of circumstances. Should the event be canceled due to unforeseen conditions, a refund minus an administrative fee of £8 will be issued.
The Ilkley Triathlon is renowned for its strong local participation, with capacity limited to 400 individual entries and twenty relay teams. Detailed information about start times, routes, safety guidelines, prize categories, and more can be found on the event website (https://ilkleytriathlon.co.uk/) starting two weeks before race day.
On-site registration will take place at least forty-five minutes prior to each participant's scheduled start time, allowing competitors ample opportunity for bike racking and final preparations. The entire triathlon is chip-timed with live results available on http://www.timemyrace.co.uk/, ensuring that athletes can track their performance in real-time.
For the latest updates leading up to race day, follow us on Facebook or visit our official website for comprehensive event details and resources.
Join us this September at Ilkley Lido as we celebrate another year of competitive spirit and community camaraderie.