In Kalmar you get the true Small City, Big Heart vibe, as you stroll around in this beautiful Swedish county with seaside charm. Everyone in the neighborhood shows up to cheer you on all day long, as you will be racing in their backyard. From an immensely crowded and emotional swim start, you take off with the sound of shots being fired over the Kalmar Strait. The marvel of the Scandinavian landscape is on display at every turn on the 180km bike course, where you will cross the iconic 6km long bridge to the island of Öland, and celebrate your achievement at Europe's biggest IRONMAN finish line party.