Over the last 25 years, The Escape From Alcatraz Triathlon has established itself as one of the premier triathlons in the world and one of the few to be featured on national TV. Its popularity has also made it one of the hardest races to get into, on par with Kona and Ironman Canada.

The Escape to Alcatraz Triathlon Series was developed in 2003 as an additional option for those looking to participate in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon.  The Series consists of up to ten qualifying events across the United States and Internationally.  The top amateur men and women in the following events qualified for the 2008 Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon.

• The London Triathlon; Aug 4-5, 2007; London, England
• The Triathlon at Pacific Grove; Sept 8, 2007; Pacific Grove, California
• Le Triathlon de Gerardmer; Sept 8-9, 2007; Gerardmer, France
• Escape from the Gorge; Sept 9, 2007; Cascade Locks, Oregon
• Westchester Triathlon; Sept 23, 2007; Rye, New York
• The Escape to Bermuda Triathlon; Nov 1-2, 2007; St. George’s, Bermuda
• Florida's Great Escape; March 9, 2008; Clermont, Florida

Additionally, the top men and women from the previous Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon will automatically qualify for the race as well.