Volunteers preview Ironman race in Chattanooga
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) —The well-known Ironman race is taking over the scenic city for the second time this year.
Riverfront Parkway has been lined up with tents and athletes since Thursday approaching the triathlon on Sunday.
Each year Chattanooga hosts the Ironman for athletes across the country.
The triathlon includes a swim, bike, and run.
“It’s definitely a unique race. It’s very supported by our community and by everybody else,” Volunteer Director Alex Christen said.
The first athletes will get in the water at 7:30 a.m. and do a 2.4 mile swim.
Once they finish the swim, they will get on their bikes and do a 116 mile bike ride.
However, this race will be a little longer than others.
“Normally for an Ironman it’s 112 miles. Ours is a little bit longer, so we make our athletes go a little bit further. And then they get off their bikes and they do a full marathon. So that’s a 26.2 mile run,” Christen said.
Christen added that this race in Chattanooga is a destination for many.
“This race in particular won a couple of athletes’ choice awards. As far as just being a fantastic race,” Christen said.
The race receives praise from athletes and support from the city each year.
Many individuals come out to participate or volunteer in the event.
“We have phenomenal volunteers in Chattanooga. I’ve met some really great people. We’ve formed great relationships just through this interaction at Ironman. It’s a great race, and great community spirit,” Volunteer/Captain Buck Meyer said.
The volunteers hope for a successful race on Sunday and a good turnout from the community.
“It should be a beautiful day. We’re expecting a really great turnout. Chattanooga always is. It’s going to be a really beautiful day,” Christen said.
