Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find a map of the race course?
Swim/Bike/Run courses are available in the course section of the web site.
What nutrition will be available on course?
Nutrition information will be confirmed in early 2012. Gatorade is provided at aid stations on-course, which are located every 15 kilometres on the 180.2 kilometre bike leg and every 2 kilometres on the 42.2 kilometre run leg. Orange Ice will be the Gatorade flavour available on the bike course and Lemon Lime the flavour of choice for the run.
Where is Busselton?
Busselton is Western Australia’s leading resort town on the shores of Geographe Bay in the beautiful Margaret River region around two and a half hours south of Perth.
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What is the Refund/Withdrawal Policy?
Individual: Withdrawal requests must be received in writing via E-mail to WesternAustralia@ironman.com. Early withdrawal requests received before 5 p.m. AEST on Friday, October 5, 2012 are eligible for a partial refund of $315.00 AUD. After this date without exception, all requests must be received on or before 5 p.m. AEST on Friday, November 9, 2012 to be eligible for a partial refund of $150.00 AUD. Transfers or deferrals are NOT permitted.
Do I need to qualify, validate or confirm my entry by completing another event?
No. However, we do suggest competing in a shorter distance triathlon event before race day. The global Ironman 70.3 series of races would be an ideal prelude.
Is there a waiting list for the races when they are sold out?
No, SunSmart Ironman Western Australia does not have a waiting list.
Are there age requirements?
Entrants must be 18 years of age on race day.
What age group will I race in on race day?
The Ironman World Championship, Ironman World Championship 70.3 and all qualifying events will implement a common rule: All age group athletes must compete in the five-year age group division corresponding to the athlete’s age on December 31 of the year of the event.
What is the Age Group breakdown?
- 18-24
- 25-29
- 30-34
- 35-39
- 40-44
- 45-49
- 50-54
- 55-59
- 60-64
- 65-69
- 70-74
- 75-79
- 80+
What categories are offered?
Age Group and Professional.
Will there be relay/teams?
No, relay teams are no longer offered at Ironman Western Australia.
I have qualified for the Ironman World Championship, can I enter the event at a later date?
No, if you wish to participate at the 2012 SunSmart Ironman Western Australia, you must enter during the regular general entry period.
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Will DVDs be given out or available for purchase?
We will have more information on the race recap DVD shortly.
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Who is the contact for the official merchandise?
Please check back soon for Ironman Merchandise information.
Who do I contact regarding race photos?
FinisherPix is the official photographer of Ironman Western Australia.
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How many slots to the Ford Ironman World Championship?
There will be 40 qualifying slots to the Ironman World Championship on offer at Ironman Western Australia 2012.
How many qualifying slots are there for Ford Ironman World Championship and how are they distributed?
At least one Kona slot shall be allocated to each five-year age-group category in which any age group athlete sends in an application, both male and female, per the age group categories listed below. Be aware that some age groups may be combined for the allocation of a Kona slot at the sole discretion of the race director. PLEASE CHECK FOR THE LATEST INFORMATION ON KONA SLOT ALLOCATION AT RACE REGISTRATION.
If there are no athletes entered in the race in a particular age group, then that slot will be moved to the largest populated age group in that same gender.
For additional age group slots, slot allocation shall be representative of the actual number of age group applicants in each category in the race.
As an example, if 8% of the age-group applicants are females 40-44, then 8% of these slots would be allocated in the female 40-44 category.
Note: All athletes must be present at Hawaii Registration to claim their spot!
Please read the Athlete Information Guide (posted a few weeks before the event) in regards to Ford Ironman World Championship and Ironman 70.3 World Championship registration and roll down.
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What is the race week schedule?
The race week schedule will be posted in mid-2012.
Will my entry include banquet tickets?
Yes. Those entered in the event – both individual and teams – will receive tickets to the Carbo Banquet, held on Friday evening and Awards Banquet, held on Monday evening. Your competitor wristband will grant you access.
How do I purchase tickets for family and friends?
You will be able to purchase additional tickets from IronmanWesternAustralia.com. An email alert will advise competitors when this facility will be available.
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Where do I find general race information and rules?
Information and rules will be made available in the coming weeks.
Where can I find information about WTC and Triathlon Australia policies?
More information will be made available in the coming weeks.
Why should I be a member of Triathlon Australia?
There is no compulsion to join Triathlon Australia as a full member but this type of membership does provide insurance cover 24/7 whilst training or competing as well as access top additional member benefits.
Are wetsuits allowed?
Wetsuits being optional is based on water temperature and if above 24C then they may be banned but this can depend on variables such as ambient air temperature. The temperature is taken on the day before the race at 6.00am and advice given at race briefing. It is again taken at 5.00am on race morning for final determination. It is in all likelihood that wetsuits will be optional as they have been for the last six years. Subject to change.
Will I be allowed to cross the finish line with my athlete?
Friends and/or family members are NOT permitted to cross the finish line or enter the finish chute with participating athletes. However, friends and/or families are encouraged to reunite with their athlete in the photo/post-race area just beyond the finish line.
Are disk wheels allowed?
Yes. Race organisers reserve the right to restrict use depending on conditions.
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Can I take my car on the race course to watch my athlete?
No, for safety reasons we ask that you do not attempt to follow your athlete by car. The best place to watch your athlete is in the transition area and the finish line. Any vehicular traffic on the race course should expect long delays. Please do not attempt to gain access to the race course with your vehicle. We want to keep the course as safe as possible for the athletes.
Will I be allowed to cross the finish line with my athlete?
Friends and/or family members will no longer be permitted to cross the finish line or enter the finish chute with participating athletes. This policy will allow each competitor adequate time to celebrate their accomplishment without interfering with other finishers and ensure the safety of all participants, volunteers and fans. Athletes who choose not to respect the new policy will receive an automatic disqualification (DQ).
Will I be allowed into the finish line area to greet my athlete?
Unfortunately, due to high congestion in the finish line area, no spectators will be allowed. Please do not try to gain access to this area, as it must remain clear for the safety of the athletes. Before the event, you and your athlete should decide on a meeting place for after they have finished.
Will I be allowed into the medical tent to look for my athlete if they have not arrived at our meeting destination?
The Medical Tent is highly congested and spectators will not be allowed in. There will be a Medical Information Tent next to the Medical Tent where medical updates will be available on athletes who enter the Medical Tent. Please, be patient with the Medical Information Volunteers, updates will be posted as soon as they are received.
What is the Ironman Expo?
The Ironman Expo features various booths- including a showcase of Ironman merchandise, Ironman retailers/bike services and many other services and products. It provides a perfect gathering and meeting place for athletes and spectators.
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What are the course cut off times?
SWIM: The swim course will close 2 hours, 20 minutes after the official start of the age-group field. BIKE: 10 hours, 30 minutes after the official start. RUN: 17 hours after the official start.
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When can I volunteer?
To volunteer, please click the ‘Volunteer’ tab at the top of this website.



