The IRONMAN Ecuador 70.3 offers an invigorating yet picturesque course through Manta, a coastal city in Ecuador. The event commences with a swim at Playa El Murciélago, a favored location for surfing and swimming. Participants embark on a 1.9-kilometer (1.2-mile) swim course, gliding past the charming Malecón 1900, a lively waterfront promenade adorned with restaurants, shops, and cafes.
The bike segment, consisting of three loops, navigates through the city’s neighbourhoods and along its stunning coastline. Spanning approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles), the course leads athletes by notable sights such as the Manta Yacht Club, Manta Bay, and Cerro de Santa Ana, a hilltop park offering breathtaking city views.
For the running portion, athletes tackle a flat and speedy two-loop course through Manta’s urban streets and parks. This route guides runners past key landmarks, including the Tarqui Cultural Center, Manta Port, and Parque de la Familia, a spacious park equipped with a playground, splash pad, and skate park, showcasing the vibrant and diverse aspects of the city.
In July, Manta, Ecuador, typically experiences warm temperatures and limited sunshine. The average temperature during the month is about 26.3 °C (79 °F), with a minimum around 23.5 °C (74.3 °F) and a maximum of approximately 29.1 °C (84.3 °F). On the coldest nights, temperatures can drop to around 21 °C (70 °F), while the warmest days might see temperatures reaching about 32 °C (90 °F).
The average water temperature in Manta, Ecuador in July is 26.1°C (78.9°F).
