New triathlon event to be worth €7m to Galway City

Discussions are at an advanced stage to bring an international triathlon to Galway next year – which could generate a boost of up to €7 million for the local economy – the Galway City Tribune has learned.

The internationally-recognised ‘brand’ – which is not the Ironman competition previously held here – also holds triathlons in the likes of Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, the USA and across Europe.

It’s understood the award-winning ‘Challenge Family’ are the organisers looking at holding the event – an official announcement is expected in the next fortnight.

Up to 1,500 participants are expected to take part in the event, which is likely to be held towards the end of next year.

An economic impact study commissioned by the Western Development Commission found that the 2011 Ironman (which had 2,164 athletes) in Galway generated a €10m boost locally.

Based on those figures, the new triathlon could generate up to €7m.

City councillor Michael Crowe confirmed to this newspaper that he has held talks with triathlon organisers, but refused to name the brand.

“I think we need to have a triathlon in the city and we need to put together a plan to have one for, say, the next three years.

“The organisers are at an advanced stage of signing a contract to bring an internationally-recognised triathlon brand to the city.

“I have gone through the exact details with them and can confirm that they have done an enormous amount of research and know what’s required for such an event to be a success,” said Cllr Crowe.

For more on this story, see the current edition of the Galway City Tribune