The Ironman Triathlon is recognised world wide as one of the greatest tests of sporting endurance. It is a competition where participants have to prove their ability across three different sporting activities. It is a race that tests competitors running, swimming and cycling ability. Importantly, these competitions take place in the course of one day. Therefore, it is a test not just of sporting ability, but of physical stamina as well.

Competitors cover vast distances during the Triathlon. In total, around 140 miles will be covered by competitors, of which around 112 miles will covered during the bicycle race and the running part of the competition covers a course of 26 miles. On top of that competitors have to contend with a challenging outdoor swimming competition.

This years Ironman UK Triathlon consists of the following:-

Running – Runners will have to complete a 3 loop course along Chorley New Road, Bolton which finishes outside Bolton Town Hall or the Reebok Stadium, Lostock, Bolton. (to be confirmed).

Swimming – Swimmers will be required to compete over two loops of Rivington Reservoir, in Horwich, Bolton

Cycling – The Ironman cycling competition consists of a three loop course through the Lancashire countryside, where each loop is just over 37 miles long.

This is the first time the IronmanUK Triathalon has been held in the North of England.

Around 1,500 professional and amateur athletes, are expected to compete for one of 30 qualifying places for the Ironman World Championships in Hawaii, later in the year.

It is expected that this event will be very popular. Last year, tens of thousands of spectators watched the IronmanUK Triathalon in Dorset.

For more information about the Triathalon and for up to date information about the event in Bolton visit the IronmanUK Triathalon website.