Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire: Road closures in place as endurance athletes prepare for event
Staffordshire is bracing itself for a host of diversions and road closures tomorrow – as the world's toughest triathletes take on the gruelling IRONMAN 70.3 challenge.
The event will see hundreds of endurance athletes attempt a 1.2 mile swim, 56-mile bike ride before finishing with a 13.1 mile run.
It will get started at Chasewater, passing through Cannock Chase before culminating at the historic Shugborough Estate.
Meanwhile, those on the roads in the county are being urged to find alternative routes due to a series of diversions and closures.
Chasewater Country Park and Pool Lane will be closed between 8am and 5pm today and 5am and 10am tomorrow for the swim.
From 7am to 11am on Sunday, the bike course will pass through the north-east of Brownhills and Lichfield from Chasewater to join the A515 where closures will be in place.
Mark Winnington, Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for the economy, said: “We always see big crowds at IRONMAN, and I’m sure that with decent weather forecast, this year will be even bigger.
"The event is great news for the economy, for local businesses and for charities and I do hope communities will come along and cheer on the competitors.
“Last year an estimated £2.4 million was spent in the county by competitors and spectator during the weekend, as well as many thousands of pounds raised for worthy causes.
"We look forward to giving a warm welcome to competitors and their friends and family and really showcasing everything that is great about Staffordshire.”
Other roads that will be affected by the course throughout the day include on part of the A5190 between Burntwood and Heath Hayes and towards Cannock Chase including Birches Valley Road and Penkridge Bank Road.
The bike course will continue to the west of Burntwood along the A5195 turning right onto Stables Way, Sevens Road, Hayfield Hill and Redmoor Road before continuing into School Lane. Road closures will in place on these roads between 6.30am and 11am.
It will then head east along Thorleys Hill in Gentleshaw before turning right on to Stoneywell Lane where closured will be in place.
The race will then head into the east of the county.
Lisa Dent, IRONMAN 70.3 Staffordshire race director added: “Staffordshire has a lot to offer athletes and their families while locals get an opportunity to see some of Britain and Europe’s best athletes live.
"Of course, it is not all about the professionals and we hope to see people come out in their numbers not only to support the athletes along the course but to enjoy the festive race day atmosphere of with us.”
