IRONMAN announced today that it will host the first IRONMAN® branded event in the state of New Mexico with the IRONMAN® 70.3® Ruidoso New Mexico triathlon. In addition, the new event will be a part of a festival weekend of racing, which will include the 5150® Ruidoso New Mexico triathlon and Ruidoso Sprint triathlon, and is scheduled to debut on July 11-12, 2026 in the Village of Ruidoso, New Mexico. Ruidoso’s diverse terrain and welcoming community will offer athletes of all levels a unique opportunity to experience stunning views of the towering peaks of Sierra Blanca while completing their triathlon goals. General registration for IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso New Mexico triathlon opens on April 23, 2026, at www.ironman.com/im703-new-mexico-ruidoso.
“When assessing potential host locations for a new IRONMAN 70.3 event, we quickly learned that Ruidoso would offer athletes an amazing destination to experience triathlon racing,” said Judy Stowers, Regional Director for IRONMAN. “Ruidoso’s welcoming community and stunning scenery make for the perfect place to bring our popular IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon and 5150 and Sprint triathlons to create a festival weekend. We believe the addition of multiple distances will bring further racing opportunities to a wide variety of athletes and attract athletes and families and friends from far and wide to this beautiful community. We are thrilled to work with our new partners in the Village of Ruidoso and know athletes will enjoy Ruidoso’s charm. We cannot wait to showcase this area through our sport.”
The festival weekend of racing will offer three distances for athletes to choose from, providing racing opportunities to athletes of all experience-levels while further growing the triathlon community in the area. Historically known for its horse races, Ruidoso has been home to numerous running and triathlon events that have turned the area into a premier location for endurance events. IRONMAN’s goal is to help further grow the sport of triathlon and the profile of this distinctive and stunning Southwestern community.
“We are absolutely thrilled that Ruidoso has been selected to host an IRONMAN 70.3 event in 2026,” said Lynn Crawford, Mayor - Village of Ruidoso. “This prestigious event represents a perfect match for our beautiful mountain community and outdoor recreation culture. We look forward to welcoming athletes and spectators from around the world to experience our natural beauty, hospitality, and the challenge of competing at elevation. This is a transformative opportunity for our community that will showcase Ruidoso on the world stage while providing significant economic benefits for years to come.”
“The IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon isn’t just another event on our calendar—it’s an incredible opportunity that will showcase our region’s natural beauty and the amazing spirit of our residents,” said Eddie Ryan, Manager of Events & Strategic Partnerships for Ruidoso. “The combination of swimming, cycling, and running will utilize the assets in our community in a way that highlights everything that makes this area special. Beyond the economic impact, which will certainly be significant, I’m most excited about the inspiration these elite athletes will bring to our community. The determination and grit on display during an IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon is something that resonates with everyone who witnesses it. We will spend the next year preparing to ensure a seamless experience for competitors and spectators alike, and I can’t wait to see it all come together on race day!”
Nestled in the stunning Sierra Blanca Mountain range, the village of Ruidoso offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its mild summers and snowy winters, this charming mountain village, with a population of just over 8,000, provides year-round recreational opportunities and a welcoming community spirit. Whether exploring scenic trails, discovering local art in Midtown, or enjoying Southwestern cuisine, Ruidoso is an inviting community with unique allure.
The IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso New Mexico triathlon will take athletes on a scenic tour of Ruidoso and its surrounding area. Athletes will kick off their race with a swim in the clear waters of Grindstone Lake. Once out of the water, athletes will then make their way through town, as they head out to the highway toward the community of Hondo experiencing epic views, before heading back into town. Athletes will finish their day with a run course that winds through the charming mountain village and scenic neighborhoods, providing a refreshing and inspiring experience culminating in an unforgettable finish line experience in the heart of Midtown. The race course for the 5150 Ruidoso New Mexico and Ruidoso Sprint triathlons will utilize parts of the same course providing athletes with a one-of-a-kind race experience.
The 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso New Mexico triathlon will offer qualifying slots to the 2027 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship.
For more information on the 2026 IRONMAN 70.3 Ruidoso New Mexico triathlon www.ironman.com/races/im703-new-mexico. For more information on the festival weekend of racing, please visit at www.ironman.com/ruidoso-new-mexico-festival-weekend.
To learn more about the IRONMAN and IRONMAN 70.3 brands and series of events, please visit www.ironman.com.