LAKE PLACID, NEW YORK – Triathlon Magazine has arrived on the ground, and we couldn’t be more excited for this weekend’s big race. Ironman Lake Placid marks the 11th stop in the 2026 Pro Series, as well as the final North American qualifying opportunity for Kona, with four slots on the line per gender.

As always, when we arrive in the Ironman Village and walk through the expo, the energy is buzzing. From first-timers taking on their first full-distance race here on this challenging course through the Adirondacks (as Matthew Marquardt said at the pro panel, a super-admirable first race!), to those returning again and again to this iconic event, it’s an incredibly special energy to be a part of.

Even around Mirror Lake, the vibe was palpable, with athletes swimming the course. We even jumped in ourselves, with the water warm enough to absolutely not need a wetsuit. If you haven’t been to this race, it’s definitely one worth flagging on your calendar going forward. Having now been here in person, it’s no surprise that this is a regular award-winning course.

Men’s Race Preview

The men’s field is headlined by Belgian star Marten Van Riel. His Pro Series campaign thus far has included a second-place finish at the epic Ironman Texas behind only Kristian Blummenfelt, widely regarded as the most competitive regular-season Ironman race in the sport’s history. He complemented that result with a win at Ironman 70.3 Elsinore, extending his undefeated streak over the 70.3 distance. He’ll be looking for a win this weekend to position himself optimally to contend for the Pro Series title heading into the championship races in Nice and Kona.

Trevor Foley is also arriving at this race with incredible momentum, following two wins from two starts this season at Ironman New Zealand and the Ironman 70.3 North American Championship in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania. Motivated by the “$200Gs,” as he calls it, he’ll be looking to continue his Pro Series momentum and plans to ride aggressively to put himself in contention. (If the aggressive riding impacts his run too much, he may head to Ironman Kalmar for another opportunity to improve his Pro Series score, but ideally Placid rewards his efforts and willingness to go for it!)

Matthew Marquardt is returning to this course as the defending champion and opened his season in strong form with a win at Ironman South Africa. Jason West is also here and is always one to watch, especially on the run, where he’s often a big mover making his way through the field. And Kristian Hogenhaug’s priority for the day is securing his coveted slot to the Big Island as the 2026 qualification period nears its close.

Women’s Race Preview

One of the most exciting stories on the women’s side is Canadian Paula Findlay making her highly anticipated debut over the full distance. She shared that longtime friends Heather Jackson and Linsey Corbin have offered their tips and advice for the full distance, and described training for something new as reigniting her joy for the sport. She’s hoping for a podium or even a win on her first go at the distance and, if offered a Kona slot, plans to take it and join the excitement on the Big Island this October.

For Lisa Perterer, this represents her first time showing up at an Ironman Pro Series race wearing bib No. 1. This course also seems to suit her well, having placed second here last year behind only reigning world champion Solveig Løvseth.

Other notable names on the women’s start list include Marta Sanchez, Grace Thek and super-runner Tamara Jewett. We can’t wait to watch the action unfold and will provide live updates from the ground all weekend long. Stay tuned!