Pembrokeshire is gearing up to showcase its spectacular scenery and offer its warmest welcome this weekend to thousands of people who will pour into the county to witness one of the largest and most challenging international sporting events.

The Ironman Wales triathlon – perhaps the most gruelling endurance race in the world – will be held in and around Tenby and south Pembrokeshire this Sunday, September 14.

More than 10,000 spectators are expected to visit the town and surrounding area on to cheer on the 2,000-plus competitors.

This year, over 190 of the entrants are from Pembrokeshire – one of the highest proportions worldwide of local competitors in Ironman events.

Pembrokeshire residents boast an astonishing 180 athletes per hundred thousand population, compared to a UK average of just 11.

And many local youngsters are amongst those able to sample a slice of Ironman excitement when they are amongst 750 taking part in the new Ironkids run event in the heart of Tenby on Saturday afternoon.

This is the fourth year in which Ironman Wales has been held in Pembrokeshire. Last year’s event boosted the local economy by some £3 million.

“We are thrilled to support Ironman Wales again this year,” said Councillor Rob Lewis, cabinet member for transportation and major events.

“It’s a fantastic event which the people of Pembrokeshire have embraced in greater numbers every year, and is a wonderful chance to put our county on the map.”

Ironman competitors have to swim 2.4 miles, cycle 112 miles and run a complete 26.2 mile marathon - all without a break.

The event starts at 7am when competitors enter the sea at Tenby's North Beach for the swimming leg of the triathlon.

Once out of the water they then embark on a bike ride across the south of the county before the final marathon stage on four loops in and around Tenby.

Popular spots to watch the cycling action include Saundersfoot’s St Bride’s Hill - dubbed ‘Heartbreak Hill’ - as well as Carew Bridge, Narberth and Pembroke.

To ensure that Ironman Wales runs smoothly and is another success, Pembrokeshire County Council has again authorised a number of road closures for the day.

Councillor Lewis said that because of the nature of the event, there were likely to be gaps in time between the first competitors home and the last, necessitating road closures for much of the day in some areas.

"We’ve had fantastic support from local residents over the last three years, and we are hoping for the same great level of support this year,” he said.

Kevin Stewart, managing director Ironman, Northern Europe, said: “Ironman Wales has earned its reputation as not only one of the toughest Ironman races, but also one that offers athletes the most amazing atmosphere.

“This couldn’t be achieved without the extensive support throughout the county of Pembrokeshire, together with the Welsh Government and the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority.

“We’re very much looking forward to welcoming all of the athletes and spectators for what we hope will be another fantastic event.”

Details of road closures can be found on www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/ironman

Although car parking is available in a variety of locations, spectators coming to Tenby or Saundersfoot for race day are recommended to use the free Park & Ride scheme from Carew Airfield which runs all day from 6am.

For further information on the event and spectator vantage points, visit www.ironmanwales.com