In less than three weeks, the IRONMAN 70.3 event will return to Walker County and Chickamauga. The May 17th triathlon received approval from the prior county and city administration as part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The MOU was executed on December 19, 2024 between Walker County Chairman Shannon Whitfield, Chickamauga Mayor Trey Deck and the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC). The agreement authorized the hosting of two IRONMAN 70.3 branded endurance triathlon events, with race dates to be held on May 18, 2025 and May 17, 2026.

Each event includes a 56-mile bicycle course that traverses unincorporated areas of the county as well as portions within Chickamauga. As such, the 2026 race cannot be canceled or materially revised without violating the terms of the existing MOU.

In consideration for the temporary inconvenience to the City and County, WTC donated $60,000 to support the Chickamauga Battlefield Connector Trail project. The 2.2 mile trail linking downtown Chickamauga to the battlefield was recently completed and is available for public use.

IRONMAN has a strong history of investing back into the communities that host their events. Here are some local examples:

• $128,000 invested in fire safety infrastructure, supporting the installation of nearly 30 fire hydrants that expand the resources available to Walker County Fire & Rescue
• $55,000 in giveback to the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga, including support for the North Georgia Community YMCA, which services Walker and Catoosa Counties
• More than $40,000 in grants to local nonprofit and volunteer groups that staff bike aid stations during race week. This includes numerous school groups and programs like Chattanooga Valley Middle School cheerleaders, LaFayette High School wrestling and cross country teams, Ridgeland High School Beta Club, and Boy Scout troops in Rock Spring and LaFayette.
• $1,500 to Walker County Schools’ Project SEARCH, supporting job training and internship opportunities for students with disabilities
• Full payment by IRONMAN for local law enforcement time and resources required for event operations, ensuring no financial burden to Walker County residents

Coordination efforts are currently underway with local law enforcement and emergency services to ensure public safety during the upcoming event. In addition, appropriate signage and community planning measures are being developed and implemented to minimize disruption and keep residents informed.