Alistair Brownlee to make Ironman bow in Youghal

One of the most recognisable faces of the triathlon event and the holder of two Olympic gold medals, Alistair Brownlee, will make his full-distance Ironman début at Ironman Cork in less than three weeks’ time in Youghal.

The British athlete will join over 2,300 competitors from across the globe for Ireland’s first ever full Ironman which takes place on 23 June.

Speaking at the announcement of Brownlee’s participation, County Mayor Cllr Patrick Gerard Murphy highlighted how Ironman Cork is shining a global spotlight on East Cork.

He said: “Ironman Cork is going to be an amazing spectacle for both athletes and visitors. I would like to welcome Alastair together with all his fellow competitors, from at home and abroad, to Cork where we will play host to an incredible sporting event with Youghal centre stage.”

Having sold out last year, Ironman Cork will begin with a 3.8km swim from Claycastle beach in Youghal Bay. The competitors will then take on a 180km bike course into Midleton with views of Youghal Bay, Ballycotton Island and Cork Harbour.

After tackling the bike course, the competitors will embark on the 42km running course around Youghal. A four-lap course, athletes will run under the arch of the Clock Gate Tower in the centre of town during each lap before finally running under the Ironman finishing arch at Green Park.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council Tim Lucey spoke of the positive effect the competition will have on the county.

He explained: “Fifty five per cent of all Ironman Cork participants will arrive to Cork from overseas, including world-renowned triathlete Alastair Brownlee which will raise our county of Cork to a global platform. It will also demonstrate the kind of work we do with our communities and businesses in order to bring this investment to East Cork which is bringing real benefits.

“Ironman Cork is set to generate an estimated €8 million economic boost to the local economy but this is only the beginning and I am confident that this is the start of many wins for Cork county.”