IRONMAN 70.3 Gulf Coast in Panama City Beach, Florida begins with a 1.2 mile swim in the Gulf of Mexico. The water is crystal clear, but athletes should be aware of strong currents, riptides, and occasional marine life, signaled by a local flag system. The swim course is clockwise, ending with athletes running up the beach and under a freshwater shower before entering transition. Water temperatures average 71° F / 22° C. The 56-mile bike course is known for being flat and fast, traveling ...