More than 3,000 people have already signed up to take on an the Ironman triathlon challenge – a year before it takes place.
The course will consist of a 1.2 mile swim at Chasewater, followed by a 56-mile bike ride through the countryside around Lichfield before finishing with a 13.1 mile run starting at finishing in Shugborough.
The event will take place in June 2015 and Kevin Stewart, managing director or Ironman UK & Ireland, said he had been shocked by the level of interest: “We expected a big response to the announcement that we are coming to Staffordshire, but the reaction has been truly incredible.
“The venue of Shugborough and the amazing backdrop of Staffordshire offers the perfect setting in every aspect and I am confident next year’s competition will swiftly prove a sell-out.”
Mike Lawrence, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, added: “We have absolutely no doubt that Ironman event will be a sporting spectacle in which Staffordshire’s economy, its tourism industry and local people as well as those taking part will all be winners.
“The response so far has been absolutely fantastic and I am delighted so many people have already shown an interest in taking part in what is going to be a truly memorable inaugural event for Staffordshire.”
The event will be one of 70 events which make up the global Ironman 70.3 Series and will offer qualifying slots for the world championships in Austria.
To register or find out more details visit the website.
