Planning to race IRONMAN 70.3 Les Sables d’Olonne? In this detailed course review, I break down everything you need to know about this unique French Atlantic coast race, including the ocean swim, rolling bike course and fast coastal run.
As an award-winning triathlon coach, IRONMAN University Certified Coach and experienced race reviewer, I’ll walk you through the key course features, race-day challenges, pacing considerations and practical tips to help you arrive prepared and race your best.
In this video you’ll learn:
✅ Swim course overview and Atlantic Ocean conditions
✅ Wetsuit expectations and swim familiarisation advice
✅ Vendée Globe Channel swim finish
✅ Bike course elevation, terrain and wind considerations
✅ Key sections to watch on the 90km bike course
✅ TT bike suitability and pacing recommendations
✅ Run course layout and spectator support
✅ Weather, nutrition and race strategy tips
✅ Common mistakes athletes make at Les Sables d’Olonne
Whether you’re targeting a personal best, a World Championship qualification slot or simply want to enjoy one of France’s most popular IRONMAN 70.3 events, this course review will help you understand what to expect on race day.
If you enjoy race reviews, course previews and triathlon coaching content, please subscribe and let me know which race you’d like me to review next.
OTHER HELPFUL VIDEOS:
70.3 nutrition: https://youtu.be/BwRIRA6U1UI?si=jl3jjnxyzd7j4Z43
Transition bags explained (only applicable to certain US races): https://youtu.be/Tjdllnsn5XY
Transition hints/tips: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLK0Fj046_efEA37dGUFeM5bgOyPfIR832&si=5sPIwsQ-MfBfVTV8
Beginners guide to packing: https://youtu.be/0weCv9jQ_B0
What should I wear for my 1st 70.3: https://youtu.be/I1D1mUFJaV4
How to handle pre race nerves: https://youtu.be/xzbvQgbuRzA?si=S5zzXFLKMwmIUQ8O
Last min tips to ensure race day success: https://youtu.be/ntrHAGUVLDA?si=dzeuU06HxqhDUTsB
How to avoid DQs in 70.3/IRONMAN racing: https://youtu.be/iXX5GeEpFOU?si=3HkaYhrofhVyHZ6D
REFERENCED PRODUCTS & SUPPORTING VIDEOS
Avoid wetsuit neck rash with a neck protector: https://youtu.be/5UtXC3Hv6sg
https://geni.us/wetsuitneck
Body glide (for faster wetsuit transition) on amazon:
https://geni.us/bodyglide4triathletes
Lock tite laces for faster transitions: https://youtu.be/S58Na4d6rd8
https://geni.us/locktitelaces
Link to airtags on amazon (to track valuable tri kit)
https://geni.us/trackyourtrikit
Coach Steve’s favorite nutrition for long distance (Tasty, easy to transport & easy to consume)
https://geni.us/clifblox
Race belt to help keep your transitions speedy:
https://geni.us/racebelt
Please note as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you and I only ever recommend products I have successfully used myself). It also helps fund the channel so I can keep creating great informative content for you awesome athletes!
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1 Comment
Just a small point – in the first part of the run, after looping round the end of the harbour entrance, you have a short section over sand before getting on to the promenade. It's shown in yellow on the run map.
I did the full distance race last year and loved it. The crowd support was amazing and the road surface is lovely to ride on, far superior to roads around me here in England.