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Ottawa Gears Up for First-Ever Ironman Triathlon: Road and Bridge Closures Announced

Updated: Aug 1


July 28, 2025, This Sunday, August 3, 2025, Ottawa will play host to a historic athletic feat as hundreds of elite and amateur competitors take part in the city’s inaugural Ironman Canada Triathlon—an endurance test that will see athletes swim, cycle, and run their way through the capital.


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The action kicks off at dawn with a 3.8-kilometre swim in the Ottawa River, followed by a grueling 180-kilometre bike ride through National Capital Commission parkways and city streets.

The final leg—a full marathon—will take runners past some of Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks, including a stretch around Parliament Hill. Participants will have until midnight to cross the finish line, with the full course requiring completion within a 17-hour window.


To ensure safety and smooth operations, the City of Ottawa has announced a wide range of road and bridge closures, beginning as early as 3 a.m. on Sunday, August 3. While many streets will reopen shortly after competitors pass through, some key closures will extend into Monday.


Closures to Note


  • Alexandra Bridge will be off-limits from 9:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 1 until noon Monday, Aug. 4

  • Sussex Drive, between Murray Street and St. Patrick Street, will be closed from 5 a.m. Sunday until 6 p.m. Monday

  • Mackenzie Avenue will shut down at 6 a.m. Sunday and reopen by 7 a.m. Monday


Streets on the Course


Expect rolling closures throughout Sunday along the following key roads:

  • Kichi Zībī Mīkan

  • Island Park Drive

  • Carling Avenue

  • Wellington Street

  • Colonel By Drive

  • Mackenzie Avenue

  • Sussex Drive

  • Rockcliffe Driveway

  • Queen Elizabeth Driveway

  • Prince of Wales Drive

  • NCC Scenic Driveway

  • Arboretum Roadway

  • Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway


Bridge Closures


In addition to Alexandra Bridge, the following crossings will be affected:

  • Champlain Bridge

  • Chaudière Bridge

  • Portage Bridge

  • Pretoria Bridge


Transit Impact


Public transit riders should be aware that OC Transpo buses using the impacted corridors will be rerouted. Riders are encouraged to check the OC Transpo alerts page for updated route information ahead of race day.


For a full map of the triathlon course and detailed road closure timelines, visit the City of Ottawa’s official Ironman event page. https://www.racepoint.ca/maps/ironman-ottawa.html

 
 
 

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