Pembrokeshire is gearing up to greet more than 2,000 athletes and thousands of spectators who are converging on the county for the spectacle of Ironman Wales 2018.

A record field of athletes from dozens of different countries will line up at Tenby’s North Beach at 6.55am on Sunday for the event’s 2.4mile swim and its stirring national anthem start.

Then it’s on to the 112-mile bike ride, taking in the coast and countryside of south Pembrokeshire, and the 26.2 mile marathon on a four-circuit course in and around Tenby.

Some of the UK’s and world’s best professional Ironman athletes will be showcased, with an impressive local contingent - including more than 25 members of Tenby Aces - competing for the biggest cheers from the crowds at every twist and turn of the gruelling course.

Ironman Wales has been secured in-county until 2021, with a five-year deal between the Ironman brand and Pembrokeshire County Council announced last year.

The authority is paying £50,000 a year to secure the agreement, which includes a £16,000 contribution from the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority. 

The event brings an estimated £4m into the local economy each year.
Ironman Wales is renowned world-wide - not just for the challenging course, but the legendary support of the Pembrokeshire crowds in towns and villages, and particularly on the finishing straight on Tenby’s Esplanade.

Last year, athletes ranked it as having the best race venue and best host city experiences out of 17 races across Europe, the Middle East and Europe.

Pembrokeshire County Council leader, Councillor David Simpson, told the Western Telegraph: “Ironman Wales is recognised as an international event, backed by a global brand, that helps promote Pembrokeshire as a county. 

“Pembrokeshire County Council is very happy to be involved with Ironman Wales, as it makes a significant contribution to the local economy. 

“The popularity of Ironman Wales amongst both contestants and spectators knows no bounds, and we are very proud that our county provides such a spectacular and challenging backdrop to the event, as well as some of the most vociferous Ironman supporters in the world.”

The event’s Expo and merchandise store opens in the Five Arches car park on Thursday, with Ironkids Wales getting underway at noon on Saturday.

The Western Telegraph will have live coverage from Ironmwan Wales on its website throughout the day on Sunday and comprehensive coverage in next week’s paper.