The time it takes for an athlete to complete a triathlon can vary widely depending on the individual's experience and the course's difficulty. Generally, a typical sprint triathlon takes around 1 to 2 hours, while an Olympic distance triathlon might range from 2 to 3 hours. For longer formats like the Ironman, the completion time can extend to around 10 to 17 hours. Factors such as weather conditions, transitions, and overall fitness level all contribute to the duration of the event.