Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Friday officially launched India’s first-ever 5150 Triathlon Chennai under the globally recognized IRONMAN brand. The event is scheduled for January 11 at MGM Beach Resort on East Coast Road.
The launch follows IRONMAN’s successful debut in India with the IRONMAN 70.3 Goa in 2019, which has since become the country’s triathlon hub, attracting over 1,200 participants from nearly 50 nations. Building on this momentum, the 5150 Triathlon brings the Olympic-distance format—comprising a 1.5 km swim, 40 km cycling, and 10 km running—to Indian athletes for the first time.
Speaking at the launch, Udhayanidhi Stalin said the government is committed to supporting world-class sporting events and sees the race as an opportunity to boost Tamil Nadu’s reputation as a global sports destination. The event will also promote fitness and inspire athletes across all age groups.
In addition to the triathlon, the partnership introduced the Duathlon Series in India, with categories such as Sprint (5 km run, 20 km cycle, 2.5 km run), Olympic (10 km run, 40 km cycle, 5 km run), and the IRONKIDS Chennai race for children aged 6–16.
Deepak Raj, Country Head of IRONMAN India, said the event marks a significant step in expanding endurance sports in the country, offering both newcomers and seasoned athletes a platform to challenge themselves.
The official 5150 Triathlon Chennai logo was also unveiled at the ceremony, signaling a major milestone for India’s growing fitness and endurance sports culture.