After Years of Setbacks, Triathlon Returns to New York City in 2026

"The New York City Triathlon was one of the sport's most iconic races. Debuting in 2001, it quickly became a bucket-list event for age-groupers and pros alike: a swim in the Hudson River, a bike up the closed West Side Highway, and a run through Central Park. At its peak as part of the Life Time Fitness Series, the race attracted up to 4,000 participants - and top names like Olympians Greg Bennett and Emma Snowsill."

"In recent years, though, the race has struggled to maintain its footing. Since 2017, it has faced a string of challenges, from extreme heat and water quality concerns to COVID disruptions. Even when the event has taken place, it hasn't always gone as planned. The 2023 race, moved to the fall, saw the swim canceled after heavy rains affected conditions in the Hudson."

"The Saugerties, New York-based Alpha Win, formerly known as HITS Endurance, is aiming to revive the event under a new name, the Big Apple Triathlon, set for Saturday, October 10, 2026. At the helm is Tommy Struzzieri, who took over the company from his father, Tom, in 2020 and has since been working to expand its race portfolio."

The New York City Triathlon, which debuted in 2001 and became a prestigious bucket-list event featuring a Hudson River swim, West Side Highway bike, and Central Park run, struggled significantly since 2017 due to extreme heat, water quality issues, and COVID disruptions. The 2023 race had its swim canceled due to heavy rains, and organizers canceled the 2024 event before registration opened, citing difficulties securing a viable date with the city. Alpha Win, a Saugerties-based company formerly known as HITS Endurance, has now stepped in to revive the historic race under the new name Big Apple Triathlon, scheduled for October 10, 2026. Tommy Struzzieri, who took over Alpha Win from his father in 2020, is leading efforts to restore triathlon to New York City.

Read at Triathlete