Weymouth Ironman labelled ' positive and lovely event'

Spirits were high as the prestigious triathlon Ironman 70.3 was held, with more than 2,000 athletes, their families and other spectators opting to stay locally and see what Weymouth has to offer.

Race day on Sunday was a fine September day with lots of sunshine so it meant perfect conditions for spectators who lined the seafront. 

As well as athletes from Dorset signing up, competitors travelled from all over the UK and even from across the world to take part in the gruelling challenge.

The annual triathlon race, considered the ultimate one-day test of endurance, comprises three parts: a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile cycle and a 13.1-mile run.

It's seen as a major economic boost for the area in a quieter part of the year after the main summer season.

It does bring disruption as many roads have to be closed, around Weymouth as well as out in the Dorset countryside, to allow the athletes race. But it's generally seen as a positive event for the town bringing a welcome boost.

Mens winner Lewis Askey at the finish line at the Pavilion forecourt during the Ironman 70.3 triathlon in Weymouth. 15th September 2024 (Image: Graham Hunt Photography)

First across the finish line was men’s winner Lewis Askey, whilst the women’s winner was crowned as Rachel Dumbrell.

Women’s winner Rachel Dumbrell celebrating at the finish line at the Pavilion forecourt during the Ironman 70.3 triathlon in Weymouth. 15th September 2024. (Image: Graham Hunt Photography) Alan Collins, owner of Hedley's seaside gift and ice cream shop on the Esplanade explained that trade over the last couple of weeks following the summer season had been ‘quite poor,’ and he welcomed the Ironman as it has brought in more trade.

Speaking on Sunday morning said: “I had a good day yesterday and I am hoping for a very good day today.

"The event grows every year, and more people seem to come down which is always a plus for Weymouth – it puts us on the map. I have been all around the world and Weymouth is one of the best places.”

Alan Collins, owner of Hedley's (Image: Hollie Carr) Mr Collins said his partner runs the Harbour House Guest House on Belle Vue and has people staying there for the event that have come from as far as Scotland.

Similarly, Sara Evans, owner of Bibi’s Boutique and Home in St Alban Street, said: “It’s bringing people to the town that might not normally come. It’s a really positive and lovely event. We have been busy over the last couple of days .”

Sara Evans, owner of Bibi’s Boutique (right) with Milena (Image: Hollie Carr)

There were plenty of competitors taking part from Dorset.

Jack Davis, from Bournemouth, opted to stay at the Golden Lion hotel in the lead-up to the event.

Jack Davis (Image: Hollie Carr) Jack came in at around 5th place in his age category and said: “It was a good day and the course was a bit brutal.”

The 2016 winner of the Weymouth Ironman event, Clive Kennedy-Burn from Pimperne, also decided to take part in this year’s triathlon.

Clive Kennedy-Burn (Image: Hollie Carr) He said: “The crowds were amazing this year. I have never seen it so lively. Everyone was a bit more friendly and buzzing. The weather brings out the best in people.

“It was not an easy course, but the crowd gets you through it.”

The competition often draws in visitors and athletes from all over the world.

Mary Engdahl was cheering people on from the side-lines with her daughter as they waited for her husband Brett to run by.

Mary Engdahl and her daughter (Image: Hollie Carr) They were visiting from London, although Mary is originally from the USA.

READ MORE: Pictures: Athletes cross the 'brutal' Ironman finish line

READ MORE: Pictures: Ironman off to an amazing start as big crowds turn out to watch

She explained that Brett was ‘doing great, ’ adding: ‘The event is great, and the team have done a really good job with the organisation. It’s a great course for spectators as we can see."

The pair had also made some brilliant signs to cheer on their loved one, reading ‘Lets go daddy-loo,’ and ‘proud of daddy.’

There were more impressive and amusing signs created by Kyren Stark and Evie Kircher who came down to Weymouth on Friday night as part of a group in order to support friends and family taking part in the event from Hull and Preston.

Kyren Stark (left) and Evie Kircher (Image: Hollie Carr) It took them seven hours to reach the seaside town and they were staying at a local holiday park.

Kyren said: “They are doing really well, they are all really pleased with the swim and all got better than their predicted times and they are raising money for Cardiomyopathy UK.”

Ironman cycling (Image: Graham Hunt Photography) IRONMAN 70.3 Weymouth Race Director Amy Hudson said: “What an incredible race today here on the Dorset Coast. The sun was shining, and the spectators were out in full force to cheer on every single athlete as they came across the line. We already can’t wait to be back again next year.”

Former racing driver and broadcaster Billy Monger has overcome a significant milestone by completing IRONMAN 70.3 Weymouth.

This pivotal moment in his preparation is the biggest training hurdle he will overcome before attempting to set a new IRONMAN World Championship course best for a double leg amputee in October, all whilst raising vital funds for Comic Relief.

YouTube star Theo Baker also achieved his goal of completing the race in under six hours as he completed the race in 05:48:26.