Photo: Visit Penticton
There will be no more Ironman in Penticton after this year.
The iconic event will not be returning to the South Okanagan after this summer’s race, according to Ironman Canada, the organization behind the event.
Ironman Canada stated they are “grateful” for the partnership Penticton has provided over the years, and hope that athletes and families will enjoy the event “one last time” in August this year.
The City of Penticton signed a five-year contract with Ironman Canada in 2019, announcing the return of the race with much fanfare. It had been gone for eight years.
Thousands of people were anticipated to fill city hotel rooms and pour tourist dollars into local coffers yearly from 2020-2024.
Then, the pandemic hit. Ironman was cancelled in 2020 and 2021, then proceeded in 2022. It was once again cancelled in 2023 due to a provincially-mandated travel ban due to local wildfires. 2024 will be its last year under the current contract, which Ironman Canada will not be re-upping.
“While the decision of Ironman Canada to cancel its contract is disappointing, we will make sure the dedicated athletes and support teams enjoy the full Penticton experience this August,” reads a statement from Mayor Julius Bloomfield.
“What makes our community a destination for major events is not only our unique geography but the people who rally to provide an unmatched atmosphere. The Penticton spirit has made this event and many others memorable over the years.”
Bloomfield added that Ironman has cancelled events globally in recent years, so “the decision is a reflection on the challenges they face and not on Penticton’s ability to stage successful events.”
He said the city’s team is hoping to continue to seek out events that attract visitors.
“All athletes know, there’s a time to say goodbye and find new challenges. We will honour the legacy of the athletes and volunteers who have made this an iconic event since the inaugural event in 1983 and begin writing a new chapter in our city’s proud sporting history.”
The final Penticton Ironman will take place August 25.
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