The 2024 Ironman World Championship took place in Nice, France, marking the second time the event has moved away from its iconic venue in Kona. The previous shift occurred in 2021 when the event was hosted in St. George due to COVID restrictions. This change has sparked considerable debate among athletes and fans, but the race unfolded in Nice, and as someone who has raced in Kona six times (and also in St. George), I was admittedly skeptical about this transition.
A World-Class City vs. an Island Nice, the fifth-largest city in France, offers a vibrant urban experience compared to the more secluded island setting of Kona.
Travel Considerations When planning your trip, remember that flights to Nice are typically two to three times more expensive than to Kona from the West Coast. However, accommodations are significantly more affordable and plentiful. We stayed in a lovely two-bedroom apartment just 0.25 miles from the Ironman Village for $270 a night, with no minimum stay required, totaling $1,400 USD for 8 nights. This contrasts sharply with Kona, where most accommodations require a 7-10 night stay, costing upwards of $3,200.Food costs in Nice are 40-50% lower than in Kona and about 25% less than in San Diego. The average latte is around $3, and fresh baguettes can be had for just $1. Wine lovers will appreciate the local options without breaking the bank. I recommend staying close to the race start for convenience, and getting to Old Nice and surrounding areas is easy with a $2 tram ride from the airport.
The Course
Swim: The swim in Nice is similar to Kona’s ocean swim, with potential chop and no current assistance. Fortunately, the cooler weather allowed for a wetsuit-legal swim for both pros and age groupers. Be prepared for a challenging swim and ensure you can handle some waves.
Bike: The Nice bike course is nothing short of EPIC! With nearly 8,000 feet of climbing, it’s a one-loop course that boasts stunning scenery. The first 5-mile climb is the toughest, so a larger cassette is recommended—consider a 32 if you’re not strong on the hills. While the major climb spans 11 miles, it’s relentless rather than steep. After that, enjoy the rolling terrain before tackling some exhilarating descents. Riding through small towns filled with locals cheering Tour de France style is a unique experience. In contrast to Kona’s hot, windy, and sometimes demoralizing course, Nice offers a cooler, constantly changing environment that feels like an adventure rather than a grind.
Run: The first eight miles of the Kona run course are magical, but the experience can quickly become lonely on the Queen K and Energy Lab. In Nice, the run consists of four laps along the Promenade. While the first mile is bustling with spectators, it thins out as you head towards the airport. The company of fellow athletes makes it more enjoyable, even as darkness falls.
Weather: The weather couldn’t be more different. Stepping off the plane in Kona often feels oppressive, while Nice welcomes you with a friendly “Bonjour” and the excitement of a new adventure.
Community: In Kona, the atmosphere is entirely focused on athletes and triathlon culture. In Nice, cafes are filled with locals sipping rosé and enjoying oysters, often wondering about the influx of sweaty athletes. You won’t encounter fellow competitors at every turn. Non-triathletes were inquisitive and supportive, cheering us on and tipping their glasses as we walked back to our place late Sunday.
Food: Food prices in Nice are much lower, and the availability of vegan and gluten-free options is surprisingly abundant. We often cooked at home, but when we dined out, we found plenty of choices to suit our diets without long waits.
Conclusion
The differences between the two venues offer unique experiences that cater to various preferences. Each location has its own advantages and disadvantages, making it challenging to choose a favorite. Looking ahead, the question remains: will the Ironman World Championship continue to be held in Nice? With only 1,270 female participants this year, sustainability is a pressing concern. If a relocation is considered, it will need to be an extraordinary venue that meets the high standards of a World Championship, as both Kona and Nice possess their own distinct magic.
Initially skeptical, I now believe that Nice truly embodies the essence of a World Championship event, both in its vibrant local atmosphere and the course itself. It’s crucial to recognize that comparing it to Kona is difficult; each offers a unique experience that is hard to replicate. Nice, in particular, has its own special charm and flair that sets it apart from the rest.