IRONMAN 70.3 Gulf Coast in Panama City Beach, Florida, features a scenic and challenging course. The event starts with a 1.2-mile swim in the Gulf of Mexico, known for its clear waters but also potential strong currents, riptides, and marine life. A local flag system helps guide swimmers, and the course is clockwise. Athletes exit the water onto the beach, pass through a freshwater shower, and head to transition with an average water temperature of 71°F (22°C). The 56-mile bike course is flat ...