Ilkley Triathlon 2026

Ilkley Triathlon is a club-run sprint event held annually at Ilkley Lido in West Yorkshire, organized by Leeds & Bradford Triathlon Club since 1992. The race consists of a 500m pool swim, a challenging 15km bike ride, and a 5km run. It is suitable for beginners because of the pool swim and welcoming atmosphere, though the course presents a significant challenge. The terrain around Ilkley is mostly hilly, featuring a sustained climb and a sharp descent on the bike leg. The bike course involves three laps on public roads, followed by a single lap run. The route incorporates roads such as Denton Road, Carter's Lane, Curly Hill, and Middleton Avenue. Participants can compete individually or as a team of three, with each member completing one discipline. With its origins dating back many years, it ranks among the UK's established triathlons. Notable past competitors include Olympic medalists Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee. The event has received the UK Race of the Year award multiple times, a testament to a local club event centered on a demanding, contained course.