Dede Griesbauer

As the oldest actively-racing professional triathlete on the planet, Dede Griesbauer says age is her greatest rival. And she is now driven by the curiosity of what somebody in their 50s can do racing people half their age.

Not surprisingly, Dede has quite a story to tell after almost two decades on the circuit. It all started back in 1996 when she got hooked watching IRONMAN on TV. By 1997 she was on the start line at IRONMAN Vineman, but it looked like “one and done” as she pursued a career in finance until 2002.

The urge to “try just one more” remained strong though, and after finishing as top amateur at IRONMAN Florida the rest is very much history. It’s been quite a ride.

Three times an IRONMAN winner and also a victor at middle distance, Dede is still taking on Old Father Time and beating him convincingly, winning Ultraman Florida 2020 in a world-record time to prove the point.

Another memorable moment in her career was becoming the 2016 12-hour Time Trial World Champion, setting a course record and beating all the men in the process. She showed her ability to overcome pain meanwhile by competing in Hawaii in 2004 with a torn Achilles.

Now also part of the IRONMAN Now commentary team, Dede continues to be a terrific ambassador for the sport on and off the course.

A lover of 80s pop and “anything unhealthy that goes with french fries”, she lives in Boulder with her husband Dave and their dogs (family is the thing she cannot do without).

Dede, who has a love-hate relationship with each of the three disciplines, trains with a host of fellow triathletes including Mirinda Carfrae, Tim O’Donnell, Joe Gambles, Justin Metzler and Julie Dibens.

Griesbauer, who prides herself on always acting with integrity, has one simple wish when it comes to her legacy.

“I won't be remembered for being the best athlete. I won't be remembered for being especially talented.

“But I hope people will think of me as hard working, honest, a good training partner and a good person and friend.”