Colm McGonigle completed the 2026 Ironman Lanzarote in 13hrs 39mins. He completed the swim (2.4miles or 3.8km) in 1hour and 18 minutes and the bike (112mile or 180km) in 7 hours 21 minutes and ran his final 26.2 mile marathon in 4hours 45 minutes to finish what has been described as the toughest course. 1,340 people took part in the grueling race which features a two-lap swim course takes place at Playa Grande. The bike course is well known for challenging athletes with strong winds, and leads athletes around the island with over 2551 meters (over 8,000 feet) of climbing. Despite the physical challenges the course presents, athletes always rave about the views and spectator support. Finally, the more forgiving run course leads competitors along the flat sea front of Puerto del Carmen, leading up to Arrecife and back, and then to Matagorda and back. Beautiful views of the ocean help mitigate the intense Lanzarote sun, as do the cheers of thousands of spectators lining the streets. Colm said “This year I wanted to challenge myself on one of the hardest Ironman Courses and Ironman Lanzarote definitely gave me a challenge! Long hills, high temperatures and brutal wind made it one hell of a tough day out but thanks to my brilliant support crew. I somehow made it to the end in 13hrs 39mins. What an amazing experience.”
