On Sunday 31st July, Bolton and the North West plays host to one of the country's biggest sporting events of the year, the IRONMANUK triathlon. Now in its 3rd year in the region, over 1,500 competitors will start with a 2.4 mile swim in Pennington Flash, then cycle 112 miles over a circuit taking in Rivington and Chorley and finish with running a marathon over three laps in and around Bolton Town Centre.
The event, supported by Bolton and Wigan Councils together with the North West Development Agency, as well as providing a real test for the competitors and bringing a high profile sporting spectacle to the area will also generate considerable economic value for local businesses.
The IRONMAN event also offers a great opportunity for everyone to get involved as the race relies on the help and support from hundreds of volunteers. It's a way of actively taking part without doing the swim, bike or running.
How Can I get Involved?
There are many volunteer roles available at this event which can be lots of fun and a great social occasion too. Being available on the Sunday is key, but there are also other opportunities from Wednesday 27th July onwards and the day after too when the award ceremonies will take place.
Volunteer roles include...
- Bike Catching - fast moving and energetic, taking bikes from the athletes as they complete the bike course.
- Transition - helping athletes find their kit and also packing it away for them. Loads of excitement and adrenaline, you could make a difference to someone's race.
- Aid Stations - helping athletes fuel their raceby handing out drinks, gels or other food.
- Registration - athletes collect registration packs and timing chips so customer service here is really useful as you will chat a lot.
- Road Marshall - ensuringthat competitors can proceed safely whether cycling or running as well as being a point of contact for spectators viewing the event.
So why not give up some time and help someone else achieve their dreams. You may even be inspired yourself!
For more information and to register as a volunteer go to www.ironmanuk.com/ironman-uk/home and click on the volunteer link.
You can also contact Geoffrey Bennette, IronmanUK's Volunteer Manager (geoffrey.bennette@worldenduranceuk.com or phone 07531 1927971) to find out more in the first instance.