More than 2,800 people are set to take on the IRONMAN Wales triathlon in Tenby next month.

The 12th edition of the sold-out event will see athletes from across the globe descend on Pembrokeshire on September 22.

This year, the race is an age-group only competition.

Among the participants are former Welsh rugby international Shane Williams and ex-professional cyclist Gruffudd Lewis.

Mr Williams has recently completed the IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea and is now aiming for the IRONMAN Wales finisher medal.

Mr Lewis, who was the quickest in the bike leg of last year's IRONMAN Wales, is also back for a second attempt.

The race offers qualifying spots for the 2025 VinFast IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship.

Athletes will face a two-loop 2.4-mile swim course on Tenby North Beach, followed by a 112-mile bike course through Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and a four-loop 26.2-mile run course.

Around 750 volunteers will help with the event.

IRONMAN Wales race director, Rebecca Sutherland, said: "We are so excited to once again welcome back thousands of athletes to Pembrokeshire for another sold-out edition of IRONMAN Wales.

"This race has become a must-do for IRONMAN athletes all over the world, which we are very proud of.

"Racing in Wales is always special as the spectator support is unrivalled.

"It’s going to be another memorable year as we get set to Face the Dragon on Sunday, September 22."

A shake-out run will take place on September 20, allowing athletes to familiarise themselves with parts of the run course.

Looking ahead, IRONMAN UK and Pembrokeshire County Council have confirmed that IRONMAN Wales will return for its 13th edition on September 21, 2025.

Councillor Rhys Sinnett, cabinet member for residents’ services, said: "Pembrokeshire is delighted to welcome IRONMAN back to Tenby for the 13th time and with the later September date once again extending the visitor season.

"Ironman Wales 2023 was the second most recommended event globally and the fourth best race globally and third best in Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), according to the athletes.

"It really is a fantastic opportunity to showcase what Tenby and Pembrokeshire has to offer."

Entries for the 2025 event will be available to sign up for at this year’s event and will open to the general public on September 26.

Athletes from countries including Ireland, the US, and Germany are set to compete in the race.

The IRONMAN Wales triathlon is a major event in the sporting calendar, attracting thousands of spectators and participants each year.

As the excitement builds for this year's race, organisers are keen to ensure minimal disruption for local residents and have urged anyone who may be affected by road closures to plan ahead.