Ironman has today announced some very big changes to its calendar for 2024, with certain events discontinued.
In a statement on its Facebook page the race organiser confirmed that there would be no full-distance event in Bolton next year, while Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire is also being axed.
Instead, the Bolton event is being turned into a 70.3, with full details and dates set to be announced in due course.
Staffordshire gets the axe
Revealing the changes in a statement, Ironman said: "It has been an exciting start to the UK triathlon season following Ironman UK in Bolton, and Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire with thousands of athletes crossing the finish line in the UK summer.
"As athletes start to plan their 2024 seasons, next year’s season will have a different look as Ironman restructures its 2024 event calendar.
"Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire will unfortunately not be taking place next year. The race has been an athlete favourite since its first edition eight years ago, with the event’s evolution from the early years at Shugborough Estate to the move into Stafford where the Knights of Stafford Castle and the unwavering spectator support in Stafford’s Market Square, played a part in creating some truly special memories for our athletes."
All change in Bolton
The statement went on to say: "In addition, Ironman UK in Bolton will become Ironman 70.3 Bolton in 2024.
"Bolton has been home to Ironman UK for the last 14 years providing the stage for so many athletes to achieve their triathlon goals and to help grow the sport of triathlon in the UK.
"With the introduction of Ironman 70.3 Bolton, we look forward to bringing in the next era of swim, bike, run in Bolton as we continue to deliver great race experiences for athletes in the UK and hope to inspire a new wave of triathletes in the North!"
The company has confirmed that Ironkids UK and Night Run UK will still take place in Bolton in 2024, while athletes with deferral entries to the 2024 Ironman UK or 70.3 Staffs events will be contacted by email.
How triathletes are reacting
There's been a wave of comments on the statement on Facebook, with many disappointed.
Andy Ashley wrote: "I think you need to explain this better. Two mainstays of British triathlon gone. With no explanation as to why. This will negatively impact on many people and they deserve better."
Meanwhile, Emma Powell said: " I've done Staffordshire Ironman as a volunteer since it started at Shugborough. I'm gutted it has ended."
"But will Ironman announce a new full-distance race in a new location," asks Kirsty Cary.
Top image credit: Nigel Roddis/Getty Images for Ironman
