SWANSEA and Gower residents turned out in their thousands to enjoy a fantastic Sunday of sport.
Families and organisations were praised for taking the third edition of the spectacular IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea to their hearts.
It attracted thousands of athletes and spectators, significantly boosted the local economy and inspired people to take part in and enjoy sport.
Scores of volunteers supported the event organised by IRONMAN, with key supporters including Swansea Council and Welsh Government.
Council cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies said: “It was a great sporting day for the city.
“Entrants and their supporters were thrilled by the local support, our fabulous natural beauty and Swansea’s brilliant hospitality sector.
“The event, along with all the others that the city hosts each year, will inspire even more people to compete in sport – competitive or recreational – and to enjoy our fabulous local area and facilities.
“We thank all local residents and businesses that changed their regular routines for this big Sunday.”
IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea race director Rebecca Sutherland said: “It’s always special when we go racing in Wales, and today had some of the biggest and best crowds we’ve ever seen here in Swansea.
“The support around the course was amazing and well deserved for all the incredible athletes out there. We can’t wait to return next year.”
The event – with free entry for spectators – followed a weekend when Swansea Bay greeted tens of thousands of people who enjoyed two days of the annual Wales Airshow.
Many businesses, especially those offering accommodation and hospitality, were busy over the IRONMAN 70.3 weekend.
Athletes enjoyed a fantastic route full of scenic beauty including SA1’s historic dockside, Mumbles, Gower and the bay’s sweeping waterfront.
Competitors came from around the world. Some are world-class. They took on a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike course then a 13.1-mile run.
Next year’s IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea date is July 13. Entries will open in the next few weeks.
It’s estimated that the IRONMAN 70.3 event brings around 20,000 spectators to Swansea. Together with the World Triathlon Para Series it’s estimated to be worth more than £2m to the local economy.
Forthcoming events this summer include three days of top-quality music in Singleton Park – James Arthur on July 18, Classic Ibiza on July 19 and retro festival Let’s Rock on July 20. Followed by outdoor theatre performances at Oystermouth Castle, with Peter Pan on August 7 and Romeo and Juliet the following day.
More IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea info, including race results – www.ironman.com/im703-swansea-results
