Ironman will be a mainstay in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, for another five years thanks to a contract extension announced just ahead of the event, which took place yesterday, Sunday 24 June. The first Ironman Coeur d’Alene kicked off in 2003, and ‘athletes were blown away by the picturesque venue at the Coeur d’Alene resort and the scenic racecourse that offers a variety of terrain.’
Ironman Coeur d’Alene starts off with a two-loop swim in beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene. The bike course takes athletes through rural northern Idaho and the run course, known for its spectator support, is a highlight of the race.
The local community has certainly embraced the event, making athletes feel at home. In commenting on the renewal at the recent signing, Coeur d’Alene Mayor Sandi Bloem emphasized the positive impact Ironman has provided to the community, while Steve Wilson, the President and CEO of the Coeur d’Alene Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the positive economic impact that the 2,500+ athletes have on the area.
Like other ‘staples’ on the North American Ironman calendar, such as Ironman Canada in Penticton, British Columbia, and Ironman Lake Placid, the lakeside resort town of Coeur d’Alene is seen as an ideal venue for an Ironman.
Downtown Coeur d’Alene is walkable and there’s easy access to the swim start, the Ironman Village and transition. The newly designed course is even more spectator friendly, making it a great venue for family and friends to watch and support.
