Last weekend’s Ironman 70.3 Maine in Augusta drew more than 2,400 athletes and thousands of spectators, according to the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The event, held July 24-26, bolstered coffers at hotels, restaurants, retailers and attractions across the region. Over the five years the event has been held in Augusta, it has generated an estimated $19.1 million in economic impact, the chamber said.
The Ironman 70.3-mile Maine included a 1.2-mile swim in the Kennebec River, a 56-mile bike ride and a 13.1-mile run through Augusta and surrounding communities.
Luke Creger took the top spot in the men’s division, finishing in 3:56:08. Andree Burke led the women’s field with a time of 4:28:32.
Some 800 volunteers were involved in helping with the race.
“Watching thousands of athletes, spectators and volunteers come together throughout the Kennebec Valley is an incredible reminder of what this event means to our region,” said Katie Doherty, president and CEO of the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce. “The impact extends far beyond race weekend. It supports our small businesses, strengthens our hospitality industry, and continues positioning the Kennebec Valley as a leading sports tourism destination.”
Ironman 70.3 Maine recently extended its partnership with the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce through 2027.
