IRONMAN has announced that IRONMAN UK will remain in Bolton until 2022. The race has become one of the biggest events in the North West of England and one of Europe’s biggest IRONMAN races. Bolton will also continue to host the world’s biggest IRONKIDS event, IRONKIDS UK with 2500 children participating annually.
The announcement comes off the back of a successful 2017 event, which saw over 2000 athletes completing the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile run finishing in Bolton town centre. Since moving to Bolton in 2009, the race has grown from 1500 athletes to over 2500 each year, and continues to be one of the most popular races amongst athletes from around the UK and the world.
“Having just completed another fantastic event in Bolton, we are delighted to announce that Bolton will remain the home of IRONMAN UK for the next five years,” said IRONMAN UK Race Director, Sam Brawn.
“This year was just another reminder of why this race and destination has become such a popular choice amongst athletes from all over the UK and the world,” he added. “The course offers a real challenge and the support from the people of Bolton and surrounding areas is simply incredible. Planning for the 2018 event is already underway and together with Bolton Council, we look forward to taking IRONMAN UK to even greater heights.”
The people of Bolton and the surrounding areas have helped shape the character of the event, each year coming out in their thousands to support the athletes. The local support has become a key feature of the race and has been recognised by the athletes. In 2016, athletes voted the IRONMAN UK bike course as one of the top 10 in the world and fourth best in Europe with the spectator support playing a big part in the ranking.
The Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Cliff Morris said “This is fantastic for Bolton and for the region. IRONMAN UK brings in millions of pounds to the local economy and the whole town really gets behind it. It showcases Bolton – the countryside, the people, the town – at its best to visitors from around the world.”
“Together with the IRONKIDS event, the whole weekend always brings a real boost to the town,” he added.
IRONMAN UK 2018 will take place Sunday 15 July. General entries will be available online from 31 July 2017.
