The UNESCO World Heritage City of Split in Croatia, is preparing to host the Split TRI triathlon on April 3-4, 2025.
Under its new Split TRI branding, the 27th edition of the Split Triathlon event is the oldest triathlon in the Dalmatia region of Croatia.
The Mediterranean city of Split is located on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, spreads over a peninsula and is one of the oldest cities in the area with more than 1,700 years of history.
Based out of Croatia’s second-largest city, the Split TRI event offers three short-course distances from super sprint (375m swim, 10km bike, 2.5km run), to sprint (750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run) and an Olympic distance triathlon (1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run). There is also an aquathlon for children and an open fun run event.
The swim leg of the Split TRI Triathlon starts in the heart of the old part of the city in Matejuška Bay, a historic port where local fishermen have gathered for centuries. The bike course takes participants along the scenic western part of Split’s Riva Promenade, with views of Marjan Hill, the Adriatic Sea, and the Dalmatian coastline with a mix of flat and rolling terrain.
The run winds past historic landmarks that date back to the 4th century AD – including Roman palace, Diocletian’s Palace (UNESCO World Heritage), the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and Peristil Square.
“We are building something unique in Croatia – a true early-season triathlon festival,” said Race Director Marko Vukušić from Triathlon Club Split.
“This year, we have expanded the event into a full weekend of racing, added a pre-race training camp, and are focusing heavily on giving athletes an unforgettable experience. From the course design to the post-race atmosphere in Split, this event is growing every year.
“At this year’s edition competitors can expect a high-energy race experience. On Saturday, we have fast and exciting short-course races as part of the Croatian Triathlon League, while Sunday is all about endurance with Olympic distance and Super Sprint distances for people new to triathlon. We expect strong competition, but also a fun and welcoming environment for beginners and age-group triathletes.”
He continued “Set against the backdrop of ancient history and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere, it has become a well-known triathlon event that grows each year, not only in the number of participants but also in its significance for the local community.
“We emphasize youth development with kids races and actively promote a healthy lifestyle. The event also brings visitors from all over the world, boosting local tourism and showcasing the beauty of Split.
“We are hosting a five-day pre-race camp from April 28 to May 2, featuring two elite triathlon coaches – Croatian long-distance champion Andrej Vištica and Triathlon Club Split head coach Raúl Muñoz Sánchez. Participants will get specialized training, video swim analysis, and scenic rides in Krka National Park and on Brač Island. It’s the perfect way to prepare for race day while experiencing the best of Dalmatia.”
Sanja Bakašun, Head of the Public Relations Unit at the city of Split, said “May is typically a month of long, mild and sunny days in the heart of the Adriatic: a perfect time and setting for a great triathlon event that features a beautiful and picturesque course steeped in history and draped across fabulous views of the timeless Adriatic sea.
“Swim-bike-run through this ancient city and enjoy outstanding architecture. It is like travelling through time, from antique-era Aspalathos to modern day Split. Split TRI will thus pay tribute to Sveti Duje (St Domnius), the protector of the city and will have the honour to be a part of the historic long tradition ‘Sudamija’ – a festival that takes place in Split during the month of May. This festival includes sports, cultural and music events – and provides an ideal tie-up for the Split TRI event.”
She continued “Alongside all of its history, heritage and beauty, Split has yet another thing to be proud of – for a long time, Split has been acknowledged as Croatia’s sportiest city.
“With our usual local modesty, we would add it is the sportiest city in the world and its surroundings. You don’t need to read old newspapers or dig through archives to check that. It’s enough to take a stroll along the western waterfront promenade, to read the names of Olympic medallists who were born in Split, or who played for teams or clubs from Split. Split as a city has one of the highest concentrations of Olympic champions per capita in the world and we’re looking forward to make triathlon grow more in our city and the Dalmatia region.”
With a number of transport options, Split is one of Croatia’s most visited cities. The Split TRI is served by Split international airport, which is accessed by direct flights to many European cities and regular, low-cost carriers from all over Europe.
www.splittri.com
www.visitsplit.com
