Black Squirrel Triathlon
Black Squirrel Triathlon offers a flat, fast 21.1K on Lake Manawa's paved paths.
Race Date
May 23, 2027
Location
Council Bluffs, IA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, May 23, 2027
- Location
- Council Bluffs, Iowa
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 25.75K, 5.75K, 750m
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Black Squirrel Triathlon presents a refreshing race day at Iowa's Lake Manawa, a gem known for its flat and fast terrain. Runners navigate a course that utilizes paved trails and adjacent streets, offering a smooth and speedy experience perfect for setting personal bests.
The event, held at Lake Manawa Beach, provides a scenic backdrop with its lakeside setting. With typical race-day temperatures ranging from 56–74°F, conditions are often favorable for a strong performance. The race is designed to be accessible to a wide range of participants, from seasoned athletes to those new to the sport, with various distances available beyond the 21.1K.
Participants can expect a well-organized event with a focus on a quality technical t-shirt as a giveaway. The race culminates with awards for top finishers across overall, age group, and relay categories, ensuring a rewarding conclusion to a day of competition by the lake.
Race-provided description
The Black Squirrel is a great race for any age and ability on a flat and fast course on Lake Manawa. The race starts and ends at Lake Manawa Beach. The Swim course is a clockwise course straight out from the beach and back. The Bike Course consists of two complete clockwise loops of the lake. The Run Course exits the transition area and uses portions of the paved trail and adjacent streets. All participants registered by April 12th will receive a finisher medal! Awards for the Top 3 overall males and females ages 15 and above. Top 3 individuals in each 5 year Age Group on both male and females. Awards also for the top 3 relay teams. Top overall award for Aquabike male and female.
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, May 23, 2027
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
T-Shirt Technical High Quality
Start Location
Lake Manawa Beach, Council Bluffs, IA, 51501
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
3 timing sources · 10 photos
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 74°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
56°
Afternoon (High)
74°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
14 mph
Wind
67%
Humidity
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Black Squirrel Triathlon?
The Black Squirrel Triathlon is held on Sunday, May 23, 2027, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Black Squirrel Triathlon take place?
It takes place in Council Bluffs, Iowa.
What distances does the Black Squirrel Triathlon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 25.75K, 5.75K, 750m.
Is the Black Squirrel Triathlon course flat and good for a PR?
The Black Squirrel Triathlon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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