Busselton prepares for biggest Ironman event ever

Busselton is busy preparing for what is set to be the biggest Ironman in the event’s 19-year history.

Athletes from more than 40 countries are set to race in the event on Sunday.

Geoff Meyer, Managing Director of Oceania for The IRONMAN Group, said that the WA team was looking forward to welcoming athletes to the South West.

“We’re thrilled to have a sell-out field set to take on GWM IRONMAN Western Australia this Sunday, with the event set to be the largest in its history,” he said.

“This year, we’re seeing locals and visitors flock to Busselton in big numbers to witness the excitement of these athletes competing . . . with almost 50 per cent of the competing athletes travelling to WA from out-of-state.”

City of Busselton Mayor Phill Cronin has a busy weekend of important Ironman duties ahead of him, but he is ready to welcome the athletes to the region.

“The City’s delighted to see so many competitors register for one of Busselton’s most iconic sporting events,” he said.

“We’re committed to supporting healthy lifestyles and hosting high profile events like GWM IRONMAN Western Australia. It’s an important part of our cultural identify, where adventure meets nature.”

When asked about what the athletes can expect this weekend, Meteorologist Jessica Lingard from the WA Bureau of Meteorology said that overall fine weather was forecast.

“On Sunday it also looks like Busselton will be best place for swimming anywhere in Western Australia,” she said.

“There is a slim chance of some rain, but overall it is set to be a very pleasant weekend.”

GWM IRONMAN Western Australia will see athletes taking on a 3.8km swim, 180km ride and 42.2km run, with GWM IRONMAN 70.3 Western Australia featuring a 1.9km swim, 90km ride and 21.1km run.

For more on the event visit https://www.ironman.com/im-western-australia