Ironman adds 70.3 to Cork, Ireland race weekend

The race that featured Alistair Brownlee’s full-distance debut in 2019 is moving from June to August, and also adding another event to create “Ireland’s biggest triathlon weekend,” from August 13 to 15.

Related: Alistair Brownlee books his ticket to Kona with a win at Ironman Ireland

In looking back at that event, Brownlee, who won the race, says: “The support from the locals was unparalleled; the climb on Windmill Hill is tough, but became a highlight due to the atmosphere created by the spectators. The crowd support throughout the event is just phenomenal! It provides the motivation you need to get across that finish line.”

According to a press release from Ironman today, the new event begins with a “1.9km (1.2-mile) swim combined with a 90.1km (56-mile) breath-taking bike route that heads straight out into the rolling Irish countryside with a combination of flat and undulating roads with magnificent views.”

“The course takes athletes through the scenic East Ferry, through the town of Midleton – home to the famous Jameson Distillery – into the buzzing town centre of Youghal, and up the infamous Windmill Hill, a spectator hotspot,” the release continues. “The 21.1km (13.1-mile) flat and fast run course finishes in the historical town of Youghal, taking in Youghal Harbour and the famous Clock Gate Tower. Both events will share the same iconic finish line in bustling Market Square.”

The addition of the new event is no-doubt an attraction to the region – according to Ironman the inaugural event “had an estimated impact of 6.32 million Euro,” and the new race is expected to add 1,500 more competitors. Race weekend will also include a IronKids race on the Friday, with the 70.3 taking place on Saturday and the Ironman race wrapping up the weekend on Sunday.