Bolton capped off another successful IRONMAN weekend by confirming a new deal to host the iconic event for another five years.
The borough has been home to England’s only full-distance IRONMAN since 2009 and has since added the world’s largest IRONKIDS event and the popular Night Run.
This latest agreement will see all three events return annually until at least 2027.
It underlines growing confidence in Bolton as a host venue for major international events and will continue to bring a significant boost to the local economy.
Each year, the IRONMAN weekend brings £3.9m into Bolton as thousands of athletes and spectators take advantage of the town’s outstanding hospitality and retail offer.
Hosting major events is a key part of Bolton Council’s strategic regeneration masterplan, bringing crowds into the town centre, boosting the economy and showcasing the borough to a global audience.
As well as the economic benefit, Bolton’s long relationship with IRONMAN has also created a sporting legacy.
Many local residents have been inspired to take part in the endurance event, to get fit and to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.
IRONMAN athletes come from all over the world to compete in Bolton which has become famous for its challenging course alongside supportive crowds and festival atmosphere.
The race organisers, athletes and spectators alike praise Bolton for its friendliness, beautiful countryside and the warm welcome they receive in the surrounding towns and villages.
Each year the IRONMAN event is supported by Bolton’s neighbouring boroughs which host sections of the swim and cycle stages of the race.
Bolton Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Hilary Fairclough, said:
“IRONMAN has become a popular fixture in Bolton’s annual events calendar, and we are thrilled that it will be back for another five years.
“Events like this contribute to our ambition to make the town centre a more vibrant and exciting place to live, work and visit.
“This weekend has been another success and we will continue to build on Bolton’s growing reputation for delivering world-class events.”
Sam Brawn, Regional Director at The IRONMAN Group, said:
“IRONMAN UK is the pinnacle of our sport in England and the longest running full-distance triathlon event in the UK.
“The support we receive from Bolton Council and spectators across the course is what makes the event special, and we’re extremely excited to continue bringing IRONMAN back to Bolton year on year.”
In addition to five more years of IRONMAN, Bolton will be a host town for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup while the annual Bolton Food and Drink Festival continues to grow in popularity.