IRONMAN Cairns is a long-distance triathlon held in Cairns, Tropical North Queensland, near the Great Barrier Reef. The event is nicknamed “Race in Paradise,” as athletes can extend their trip around race week to explore the nearby reef, rainforest, and tropical islands.
The cycling course proceeds north on the Captain Cook Highway, tracing the coast from Cairns to Port Douglas. The route winds between reef landscapes and World Heritage-listed rainforest, leading athletes to the Cairns boardwalk for a finish in the city center. It attracts IRONMAN competitors seeking a destination event and those aiming for World Championship qualifying spots.