The 2016 Ironman Switzerland will get a new run course in downtown Zürich that promises to be more scenic and exciting for athletes and spectators alike, but most importantly faster. All in time to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this event.

Until 2015 the run course touched some sections of downtown Zürich, but it was not possible for the organizers to include some of the most prominent and historic areas, such as the Bahnhof and the Frau- and Grossmünster. But after long and hard talks between the organizers and city officials, the run course will now include many of these attractions.

“We are so proud and grateful that the city of Zürich, and notably the police board and the public transport authority, agreed to take this step with us,” said race director Nico Aeschimann. “The newly designed, multifaceted four-loop run course takes athletes through the heart of the city in harmony with its modernity. After passing the town’s landmarks and the historic buildings, the athletes will then run through beautiful alleys before they reach the world-famous Bahnhofstrasse and later the shores of Lake Zürich.”

Although the exact course route has not yet been released, word has it that this will be a faster course.

“The new run course will definitely guarantee a smoother and faster run,” added Aeschimann.

The Zürich Grossmünster with the Münsterbrücke is a stunning area.

A look at downtown Zürich from above.

The quaint Bahnhofstrasse leads to the main train station (Bahnhof) of Zürich.

The bike course is always popular as it features throngs of passionate spectators, like many big European races.

The 2016 Ironman Switzerland in and around Zürich takes place on July 24th and it is still possible to enter this race. Step outside the box and race in Europe, you will not regret it.


Images 1-3 are courtesy of Zürich Tourismus.