Volunteers needed for IRONMAN Wisconsin 2023
Sign-ups close at noon on Friday.
MADISON, Wis. (WMTV) - The 21st IRONMAN Wisconsin is happening this weekend in Madison and organizers are putting out a last-minute call for volunteers to help the races run smoothly.
More than 3,100 total athletes are registered for the triathlons taking place on September 9 and 10. The first, on Saturday, is the IRONMAN 70.3 Wisconsin Triathlon, where athletes traverse 70.3 miles of swimming, biking, and running in Dane County. Sunday is the 140.6 mile IRONMAN Wisconsin Triathlon.
Both courses take IRONMAN hopefuls on a swim in Lake Monona, a bike race throughout the rolling hills of Dane County, and a run that features iconic Madison landmarks like Camp Randall Stadium and the State Capitol.
“This weekend downtown and surrounding Dane County just becomes electric,” says Ryan Richards, Race Director for IRONMAN Wisconsin.
Organizers are asking anyone who is willing to volunteer over the weekend to sign up before noon on Friday.
“Our volunteers are the lifeline of this race. We’re so appreciative of everyone who gives their time and their energy to the event,“ says Richards.
They need people to help with various tasks, such as passing out food and water, helping direct athletes on the courses, helping with traffic flow, security, and more.
Richards says they have enough volunteers to put on the races efficiently, but the more they can get, the better. “Last year we had about 2,000 people filling about 3,000 volunteer shifts throughout the week and during the races themselves,” says Richards.
Last year more than 2,500 athletes descended on Madison for the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, and 26.2 mile run.
“Everybody is doing the race for their own reasons, some want to go faster, some are overcoming cancer, some are overcoming big weight loss. To see them achieve those goals and be a part of it, with their friends and family at the finish line and cheering them on, it’s a pretty special event to be a part of,” says Richards.
Those driving through downtown Madison and Dane County should note road closures due to race routes. Spectators can find a full schedule of events and other information on the official IRONMAN Wisconsin Facebook page.
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