TRI-CITIES, Wash. – The Tri-Cities are gearing up for the second annual Ironman event, set to take place this weekend. More than 2,500 athletes from across the country and the world will compete in the event, which includes a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run.
The event is expected to generate more than $7 million in revenue for the area. Kevin Lewis, president and CEO of Visit Tri-Cities, emphasized the positive impact the Ironman has on the community.
“You have passionate athletes who’ve been preparing, in some cases, their whole life for this,” Lewis said. “That creates an energy and a vitality in our community.”
Last year’s event also brought in roughly $7 million, and this year is anticipated to surpass that. Lewis explained how the revenue benefits local businesses.
“It gets this infusion of economic benefit that then filters and spreads throughout the community,” he said.
Local businesses like Greenies Bicycle Shop in Richland are already feeling the impact. Owner Darin Warnick mentioned how his shop has been assisting athletes with their bikes and equipment.
“It’s the one area where there’s a performance advantage in the equipment,” Warnick said. “With the right equipment, you can save a lot of time.”
Both Warnick and Lewis believe the Ironman benefits not only the athletes but also the entire Tri-Cities area.
“It helps out the hotels or the restaurants,” Warnick said. “It is a huge impact economically for all the businesses here.”
The Ironman event will be held on Sunday, with spectators encouraged to cheer on the athletes at various points along the course.
