Major roadways, bridges impacted by Ottawa Ironman race this weekend
Posted Jul 31, 2025 01:54:07 PM.
Last Updated Jul 31, 2025 01:54:32 PM.
Those heading out and about in the nation’s capital on Sunday should take time to look ahead and make sure they won’t be impacted by a huge race.
Ottawa is hosting its first IRONMAN race, which will see hundreds of endurance athletes run, bike and swim for most of the day on Aug. 3. The participants have 17 hours to complete the courses, meaning roads used for the event are likely to be closed almost all day.
The municipality said people should expect the closures to last from 3:00 a.m. on Aug. 3 to 1:00 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 4.
Some roadways include major through-fares for residents and visitors:
- Kichi Zībī Mīkan
- Island Park Drive
- Carling Avenue
- Wellington Street
- Colonel By Drive
- Mackenzie Avenue
- Sussex Drive
- Rockcliffe Driveway
- Queen Elizabeth Drive
- Prince of Wales Drive
- National Capital Commission Scenic Driveway
- Arboretum Roadway
Several bridges in the city and Gatineau are also impacted including:
- Alexandra Bridge
- Champlain Bridge
- Chaudière Bridge
- Portage Bridge
- Pretoria Bridge
Triathlons increasing in popularity
Ironman’s have been increasing in popularity along with other endurance sports like running and long distance cycling. The Ironman Group’s own research found that in 2024, over 50,000 athletes completed their first Ironman or Ironman 70.3, marking a four per cent year-over-year increase.
A 3.8 km swim, 180 km bike and 42.2 km run is not for the weak.
Further data shows that participation among those ages 18 to 35 is at an all time high and female participation increased 10 per cent in one year.
The course features a swim in the Ottawa River, a bike course through the city streets and a marathon route along the Rideau Canal pathway ending in front of Parliament Hill.
