Chickamauga, GA – Walker County welcomes over 3,800 athletes to the area for this Sunday’s IRONMAN 70.3 event.

A majority of the 56-mile bicycle portion of the triathlon will once again trek through Walker County.  Cyclists will enter Walker County on Highway 193, where a new “Walker County Welcomes You” sign will greet them.

Athletes will soak in some incredible views as they travel about 18 miles south before cutting across Andrews Lane to get to Hog Jowl Road.  They will then pedal another 12 miles up Cove Road/Highway 341 until reaching downtown Chickamauga, where family, friends and other spectators will line the streets and sidewalks to greet them.

After leaving Chickamauga by way of Chickamauga Road, IRONMAN competitors will reconnect with Highway 193 and navigate back into Chattanooga.

The race begins with the swimming portion at 6:50 a.m.  The first athlete is expected to reach the finish line by 10:30 a.m.  Spectators wanting to watch the bicycle portion from downtown Chickamauga should be in place prior to 10:00 a.m. to see the first group ride through.

Last month, the IRONMAN Foundation announced a $160,000 grant to help install 40 new fire hydrants in needed locations.  The community investment will provide additional coverage for Walker County first responders to handle emergency situations.