Augusta expects Ironman event to pump up economic coffers
Courtesy / Maine Sports Commission
Athletes prepare for the swimming portion of the 2023 Ironman 70.3 Maine triathlon.
Kennebec Valley will welcome the Ironman 70.3 Maine triathlon this weekend for the fourth consecutive year.
The event is expected to bring more than 5,000 people from around the globe to Augusta and the surrounding communities.
Over the previous three years, the Ironman 70.3 Maine event has brought in an estimated $12 million to the local economy.
Since its Augusta debut in 2022, the Ironman has brought 14,739 visitors from 26 countries and 49 states to the Kennebec Valley region.
“Our partnership with Ironman has been a tremendous success, contributing not only to the economic growth of our region but also in showcasing the Kennebec Valley as an ideal place for world-class events,” said Katie Doherty, president and CEO of the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to continuing this momentum for this year’s event, and in the years to come.”
She added that 98% of event participants traveled from outside Kennebec County. Athletes typically travel with 2 to 3 supporters and spend an average of three nights in the region, resulting in a significant economic boost for local hotels, shops, restaurants and other small businesses.
“Events like the Ironman 70.3 introduce Maine to people who might not have thought of visiting otherwise, and we often see athletes and families return to stay in our state, amplifying Maine as a four-season destination," said Sheila Brennan Nee, strategic director for the Maine Sports Commission. She thanked the businesses and area organizations for "embracing this opportunity."
Fast swim
The Ironman 70.3 Maine event was originally held in Old Orchard Beach and moved to Augusta in 2022. Organizers recently extended the partnership with the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce through 2027.
The Ironman 70.3 Maine triathlon begins with a 1.2-mile point-to-point swim in the Kennebec River; it's a downriver course and considered faster than comparable triathlon courses like ones slated for open-water swims. Athletes transition near the Capitol building to the 56-mile bike leg, followed by a 13.1-mile run that includes the Kennebec River Rail Trail.
“Ironman is super excited to be in Maine again this year,” said Ryan Jarrell, race director.
The event kicks off Friday afternoon, at 2 p.m., with the athlete check-in. There's also a welcome party, at 7 p.m., followed by fireworks hosted by the chamber and the city. The race itself starts at 6 a.m. on Sunday.
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