IRONMAN Faces Potential Rain Threat

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – Chattanooga is preparing to welcome the IRONMAN triathlon for its 11th year this weekend, drawing thousands of athletes from across the country and around the world. 

Race weekend begins Thursday, Sept. 25, with athlete check-in at IRONMAN Village on Ross’s Landing.

The full course includes a 2.4-mile swim in the Tennessee River, a 112-mile bike ride through Hamilton County, and a 26.2-mile run across downtown Chattanooga and the Riverwalk, finishing at Ross’s Landing.

The TVAS forecast center is closely monitoring river conditions after heavy rainfall this week, and the swim portion may be canceled if water levels become unsafe. 

Organizers say the bike and run portions are expected to proceed as planned, with updates provided to athletes and spectators ahead of race day.

Despite the uncertainty, a strong international field is set to compete for a $100,000 prize purse, keeping Chattanooga a premier destination for endurance sports.