Ready, or hot — Da Nang is preparing to welcome nearly 3,000 athletes from around the world this May, as the city celebrates the 10th anniversary of the IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang.
Set to take place from May 9 to 11, 2025, the event marks a significant milestone for the city’s growing reputation as a hub for international endurance sports.
According to Baodanang, this year’s race has been officially renamed IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang to honor the city’s decade-long contribution to the sport’s development in Vietnam.
The Da Nang Ironman is No Joke
If you’ve never looked deep into what constitutes an Ironman competition, there is a reason — it’s relatively insane.
The Da Nang version — the IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon — includes:
- A 1.9km open water swim
- A 90km bike ride along Da Nang’s scenic coastline
- A 21km run through some of the city’s most vibrant areas
Yeah. I’ll stick to getting in my 10,000 steps. Baby steps, if you will.
The event is expected to bring together competitors from over 52 countries, making it one of the largest international gatherings in Da Nang in 2025. If anything, those reading this should take into account that these days may be a good time to avoid your favorite Da Nang beach. Traffic — both foot and vehicle — will be at an all-time high.
Top athletes will be competing for 30 qualifying spots at the prestigious 2025 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Marbella, Spain.
More Than Just a Race
Want to get a taste of Ironman without all the possible collapsing due to fatigue? You’re in luck.
The IRONMAN 70.3 weekend is designed to offer something for everyone, not just professional athletes:
- SUNRISE SPRINT Viet Nam: A beginner-friendly triathlon featuring a 750m swim, 20km bike ride, and 5km run, perfect for those trying their first multi-sport event.
- IRONKIDS Viet Nam: Special aquathlon and triathlon races for children aged 5 to 15 years, encouraging young athletes to get involved.
- Newborns Viet Nam Run Out: A charity fun run supporting critical newborn healthcare initiatives across Viet Nam.
Regardless, whether participating or simply watching, the atmosphere around Da Nang will be festive, with a range of activities, events, and plenty of community spirit throughout the weekend.
Why This Matters for Expats and Visitors
Da Nang is growing, and events like this matter—both from a tourist’s point of view as well as an economic one.
The IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang isn’t just a sporting event — it’s an integral part of the city’s growing international identity.
Since 2015, the event has generated over USD 55 million for the local economy, boosting tourism, hospitality, and entertainment sectors.
For expats living in Da Nang, or travelers planning a visit in May, the event means:
- Busy beaches and vibrant crowds around My Khe Beach, the race’s central hub
- Hotel and restaurant promotions, as businesses cater to visiting athletes and spectators
- Traffic adjustments and road closures near the race routes (especially along Vo Nguyen Giap Street and downtown areas)
- Opportunities to volunteer or support charity runs for Newborns Viet Nam
City officials, according to Baodanang, emphasize that the event helps strengthen Da Nang’s image as a premier destination for international sporting events, alongside the successful Da Nang International Marathon earlier this year.
Even if you’re not racing, joining the crowds to cheer on athletes or participating in one of the fun runs is a memorable way to experience Da Nang’s energy during this significant international event.
For more updates and event details, follow the official IRONMAN 70.3 Da Nang website or check local event listings leading up to race day.
