Now in its 11th year, the annual Waterways Ireland triAthlone takes place this weekend in Athlone.
More than 500 athletes and upwards of 1,000 supporters and spectators are expected to descend on the town for the annual event, which takes place this Saturday, August 6.
This year sees big changes for triAthlone, with a new management team in place and new courses, but the same exciting atmosphere and quality of racing are guaranteed.
Participants in this weekend’s event have the option of tackling either the Sprint or the ‘Try a Tri’ race, both of which are open to individual or relay entries. The Sprint race takes in a 750m swim, 20km bike ride, and 5km run; while the Try a Tri option includes a 250m swim, 20km bike ride, and 2.75km run.
As athletes prepare to take to the waters of the River Shannon and the roads of Athlone, road closures and traffic restrictions will be implemented on Friday and Saturday to facilitate the races.
On Friday August 5, Grace Road and the Quays will be closed from 6pm-midnight.
On Saturday August 6, race day, the R446 Grace Road, the Town Bridge, Castle Street, Main Street, the Quays, St Peters Port, High Street, Bastion Street, O’Connell Street, and Connacht Street will be closed between 5.45pm and midnight.
The R446 from the Town Bridge to Shines Bar will be closed from 5.45–11pm, while the L2047 from Monksland Co Op to the roundabout in Bealnamulla will be closed from 6-10pm.
For more information on the event, including maps of road closures, see www.triathlone.com/registration
