Staffordshire Ironman: It'll be bigger and better, say organisers
Organisers of the Ironman endurance competition are aiming for the event to be 'an even bigger success' than last year.
Last year an estimated £1.4 million was spent on food and accommodation by competitors at the Staffordshire event and a further £1 million spent by spectators during the weekend.
Once again, the event, taking place on June 11, will see competitors complete a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike ride and 13.1 mile half marathon, starting at Chasewater, passing through Cannock Chase before culminating at Shugborough.
Kevin Stewart, managing director of Ironman UK and Ireland, said: "We had a fantastic first year in Staffordshire and are working hard to make sure the second year is an even bigger success story.
"Staffordshire provides a spectacular backdrop for the event and the great reception from local residents along the route will undoubtedly help spur on competitors over the finishing line once again."
Mark Winnington, Staffordshire County Council's economy boss said Ironman and the county council are working hard behind the scenes to help ensure everything goes smoothly over the weekend,
He said: "The first Staffordshire Ironman 70.3 was a huge success from start to finish and was a great opportunity to really showcase what a fantastic county Staffordshire is to live, work and visit.
"It brings a great boost for the local economy, businesses and tourism and as county we are looking forward to giving a warm welcome to the competitors and their supporters once again next month."
Last year, TV chef Gordon Ramsay and his wife Tana, and world champion Javier Gomez, joined more than 2,000 people taking part in the competition in Staffordshire.
