Ironman Cozumel Results Analysis

The average finish time for all triathletes in Ironman Cozumel was 12 hours, 40 minutes, a 31 minute improvement compared to the 2009 race. Most age groups experienced faster average times, as well.

Almost the entire differential came from a 30 minute bike split gain, to an average time of 6:06; the swim was slower by 4 minutes, the run faster by about the same amount. Individual race results can be found at ironmancozumel.com

North American Ironman DNF Rates: Finishers and DNF by Race

The average triathlete spend months, if not years, preparing to compete in an Ironman Triathlon, to finish the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride and 26.2 mile marathon in less than 17 hours. In a typical North American Ironman, nearly 95% of those who start will ultimately finish the race. And it's interesting to note that even with a world-class field,  Kona has a 7% DNF rate.

In 2010, two races deviated from this norm. The Inaugural Ironman St. George was far tougher than expected, leading to a 14% DNF on a very difficult course (we estimate 18% in 2011). In extreme heat, Ironman Louisville Kentucky  had 16% DNF, though in previous years, the rate has been in the 5% to 7% range.  Also see our DNS/DNF Analysis and the RunTri.com Challenge Index: Top 25 Toughest Ironman Triathlons.

Entering an Ironman Race: When is a Race Sold Out?

For races in the US in 2010, about 3000 was the limit.  But the definition of 'Sold Out' has increased remarkably over the years (with the exception of 2008). And Canada's on its way to 3400 for 2011.

As of January 2011: Arizona, Florida, Wisconsin, Coeur d'Alene, and Lake Placid are sold out to general and foundation entry; Canada is near 3300 total entrants and still offering foundation slots (121 as of 1/27/11). After tough races in 2010, triathletes are not flocking to register for Louisville and St. George; high DNF rates are partly to blame.

Many of the most popular Ironman races in North America are deemed 'Sold Out' the same day registration opens. How many entrants can register for 'General Entry'? How many additional Foundation Entries? The numbers aren't made public, but we've done the analysis. Our estimate: roughly 2700 General, 300 Foundation Entries, around 3000 total. Canada is the exception for 2011, so far.

Combined General + Foundation Entries seem to increase by 100 to 200 athletes each year. In 2005, races were Sold Out with about 2200 to 2400 entrants. By 2010, up to 3000 total entries in a race seemed to be the limit for most races.