The countdown is on to Ironman Wales in Pembrokeshire, which has seen more than 2,800 athletes signing up to ‘face the dragon’ on Sunday, September 22.

Ironman Wales' legendary atmosphere is building up in the event hub in Tenby, from where the race’'s iconic swim will get underway at 7.30am, half an hour later than usual because of tides.

Once completing the 2.4 mile swim course, the athletes start the long run up the North Beach zig zag and through town to the bike transition in the South Beach car park.

The cycle course is a 112-mile route taking in the coast and countryside of south Pembrokeshire, ahead of the marathon which is run on a four-loop course in and around Tenby.

Tenby's electronic traffic signs are giving people a timely reminder.Tenby's electronic traffic signs are giving people a timely reminder. (Image: Gareth Davies Photography) Thousands of spectators line the streets to cheer the athletes on to the finish line under the famous Ironman Wales arch on the Esplanade.

Athletes and their supporters continue to pour into Pembrokeshire, with families particularly looking forward to Ironkids, which takes place on and around the Esplanade on Saturday September 21 between noon and 5.30pm, finishing underneath the famous Ironman Wales arch. 

New kit inspiration and temptation in the Ironman Wales expo tentNew kit inspiration and temptation in the Ironman Wales expo tent (Image: Gareth Davies Photography)

And for those who would like some spiritual help for Sunday's event, there is Ironprayer at Deer Park Baptist Church from 6pm-6.45pm on Saturday.

This year will be the 12th time that the event has been in town, and it has achieved world-wide fame amongst the Ironman community.

Making their mark on the Ironman Wales message board.Making their mark on the Ironman Wales message board. (Image: Gareth Davies Photography)

It came out ahead of triathlons in Brazil, Malaysia and the Philippines in the Ironman Global Athletes’ Choice Awards.

Out of more than 40 Ironman triathlons in the world, the Pembrokeshire race is the second most recommended by its athletes, with Kalnar in Sweden claiming the top spot.

It also scooped fourth ranking for overall event satisfaction, while the bike course was voted fifth globally.

All the Ironman merchandise you could dream of!All the Ironman merchandise you could dream of! (Image: Gareth Davies Photography)

People are reminded they need to plan ahead for the day.

To find alternative routes, residents can visit the Ironman website to plan their route.

Bike course closure and run course closure maps are available on the Ironman website too.

For any other Ironman Wales access questions, please contact wales@ironmanroadaccess.com or call 03330 11 66 00.

And next year?

Ironman Wales is set to return to Tenby next year on Sunday September 21, 2025.