The third annual Ironman triathlon wrapped up in Augusta on Sunday.
Katie Doherty, president of the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, said more than 2,400 individuals ran, biked and swam 70.3 miles in the sweltering sun to cross the finish line on Union Street.
“It was a great day, but a hot one,” said Doherty. “Everyone from the participants to the staff have been working hard all day, and I’m just so thankful that the community came and supported the athletes.”
Participants of this year’s Ironman came from across the United States and as far as Spain.
“Last year we had 49 states and 27 countries. When you think about that, it’s amazing that people from that many areas come out to Augusta, Maine and check out our Capitol,” said Doherty.
The race also provides an economic boost for the city.
“In 2022, our first year, we made a $2.6 million economic impact on the region,” said Doherty. “Last year, we made a $4.9 million economic impact on the region.”
Doherty says she doesn’t know how much money the city brought in for this year’s Ironman. However, she believes it’s more than the last two years due to a combination of selling out this year’s event and hotels, restaurants and venues being booked full the entire weekend.
Some competitors are also staying a few extra days to soak in the Maine scenery.
“It’s a beautiful area,” said David Geno, an experienced Ironman participant from Chattanooga, Tennesse. “We’re staying right outside of Augusta and the first couple days we spent in Portland. I love it up here and definitely plan to come back.”
“I love Augusta. I loved walking on the Riverwalk and exploring the city. It’s so beautiful and I’m so grateful to be here,” said Margaux Courgeon, a Quebec native who’s competing in her first Ironman with her twin sister Victoria.
Some spectators like Richard Clark, who lives along the biking portion of the Ironman, say an event like this is vital for the city.
“I know this pumps a ton of money into the economy, whether it’s gas stations, motels, hotels, vendors or restaurants, and it’s nice to see our local shops benefiting from this event,” said Clark.
Doherty says the city currently has a contract to host the Ironman until 2027.
“We love hosting the Ironman every year. We love the athletes,” said Doherty. “Planning for an Ironman takes a whole year so we’ll give ourselves a month off and then hit the ground running on next year’s Ironman. We look forward to it.”