Over 3,000 athletes braved wind and rain in Tenby for the 14th edition of Ironman Wales, with Britain's Nikki Bartlett and Finland's Henrik Goesch claiming victory in the men's and women's races respectively.
Race day in Tenby
Thousands of spectators lined the streets of the Pembrokeshire coastal town, creating an electric atmosphere despite the rain. Before the race began, athletes and crowds sang the national anthem in the natural amphitheatre around the sea wall on Tenby's North Beach.
The course began with a 2.4-mile swim, followed by a 112-mile bike ride through the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, passing historic castles and landmarks. Competitors then faced a 26.2-mile marathon, weaving through Tenby's medieval town centre and finishing along the scenic beachfront, where tens of thousands of spectators stood out in the wind and rain to cheer them on.
Winners' reactions
Henrik Goesch of Finland crossed the line first in 08:31:31. After the race, he said: "It's pretty cool! It's my first time at Wales. I think I've earned my off season now!"
Nikki Bartlett of Britain won the women's event in 09:45:37. She praised the crowds: "I feel on top of the world! Thank you everyone. It's my favourite race. When the pro calendar comes out, I go straight down to see if IRONMAN Wales is a pro race. I make it my biggest race of the year, I love this place so much, the people, the spectators, the volunteers. Everyone here makes Tenby so special. Without you guys, this wouldn't be the same."
Looking ahead
General registration for the 15th anniversary edition of Ironman Wales, scheduled for September 19, 2027, opens on Thursday, September 17.
