Bolton in line to host the tough Ironman triathlon

3:50pm Wednesday 24th December 2008

ONE of the world’s toughest sporting challenges could soon be putting Bolton on the map.

The town has been asked to host the Ironman UK International Triathlon for the next three years which would bring millions of pounds to the local economy.

It is set to be the largest sporting event held in Bolton and a television deal means that more than a billion people worldwide would be watching the events in the town.

The Ironman Triathlon — which involves a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run — attracts professional athletes from across the world and is a global qualifier for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii.

Talks are currently taking place and Ironman bosses are confident the event will take place in Bolton on August 2 next year for 2,000 athletes.

A spokesman said: “Entries are going fast for next year’s Ironman UK.

“The 2009 race has a new date and an exciting new venue — Bolton.

“The new date and race site are obviously a hit as less than 250 slots remain, despite the fact that it only opened for entries last weekend.”

Last year's event, at Sherborne Castle in Dorset, attracted 1,650 entrants from 42 countries and more than 30,000 spectators.

It is estimated that the event was worth £3.5m to the local economy. Organisers decided to move the event because it was increasing size.

Bolton Council was approached by the North West Development Agency to host the 2009, 2010 and 2011 triathlons.

If the council gives the event a final go-ahead, the NWDA will fund next year's £200,000 race, with the council supplying sums of £95,000 for both 2010 and 2011.

A council spokesman said: “We have been approached by the NWDA with regards to hosting the Ironman UK Triathlon for the next three years.

“The Executive Members for Development and Regeneration have approved this, subject to us being able to finalise the logistical arrangements for the event with key partners. We are hoping to be able to finalise these arrangements early in the New Year.”

If agreed, the swimming would be at Rivington Reservoir, and the cycling route would encompass Adlington, Blackrod and parts of Chorley.

Bolton town centre would only feature in the run, with a proposed route including the Horwich area, the Reebok Stadium and Middlebrook before finishing at Victoria Square in Bolton town centre.

A spokesman for the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce said: “This is great news for Bolton as it will boost the economy and will highlight what the town has to offer.”