Road Closures, Spectator Tips, and Race Details Ahead of Ironman 70.3 Texas

Every year, over 2,000 professional and amateur athletes worldwide come to Galveston for the Ironman 70.3 Texas Triathlon, one of the most anticipated sports events on the Gulf Coast. The challenging race starts at 7 a.m. and includes a 1.2-mile open-water swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run. The beaches and Moody Gardens of the island are in the background.

There is a saltwater course for swimmers to complete at Palm Beach at Moody Gardens before they switch to their bikes for the rest of the race. Cyclists follow the path along the Seawall, over the San Luis Pass, and briefly on the mainland before making a loop back to the gardens. The last leg goes through Offatts Bayou and Palm Beach and ends near the Aquarium Pyramid, where race fans can meet to cheer on the runners.

The Ironman 70.3 is known for its beautiful scenery and flat course, but it got national news last year when a Canadian athlete tragically died. The athlete's widow sued race organizers and the Galveston Park Board for $1 million. Even though something happened, there is still a lot of excitement at the event. Event organizers say that by March, 85% of the spots in the 2024 race had already been taken.

People who want to watch must get there early and use the approved viewing areas at the Lockheed Drive finish line or 1 Hope Blvd. The Ironman Tracker app will allow athletes to get real-time information.

Most of Sunday, roads will be closed near Moody Gardens, Seawall Boulevard, and the San Luis Pass Bridge. Officials say to check area advisories and make plans for alternative routes.

Outside TV will stream the race live, and the awards ceremony is set for 4 p.m. It is part of the Ironman Pro Series. Many athletes start their triathlon season with the Galveston race because the water is warm, the times are fast, and athletes from all over the world compete.

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