Ironman Alaska has cancelled plans to host events in Juneau for the next two-years.
Liz Perry, President and CEO of Travel Juneau, stated that the Ironman Alaska organizer called her to inform her that she had made the decision due to economic concerns such as inflation and the possibility of a recession.
Perry stated that they have not broken any ground with them. “They are forever so grateful to Juneau for all that we did for their, and they want that door open for a future event .”
Perry said that this summer’s Ironman race was the first in Juneau. Around 850 competitors from all over the country participated in driving rain.
Although this was lower than the original estimate it still brought in $8 million for the local economy. This included the hotel and food costs, as well as other expenses paid by the visitors who came to town to attend the event.
Housing for all visitors was an issue leading up to the racespan styling=”font-weight 400 ;”>. Locals offered assistance when athletes had difficulty getting their bikes to Juneau in the time allowed for the race.
Perry stated that she was disappointed by the decision but said that Ironman could return to the sport in the future if the economy improves. There is potential for similar events, as Juneau has proven it can host such an event.
span style=”font weight: 400 ;”>” This opens up the possibility of us looking out for similar events. She said that they could be athletic events or other types of events the town can put on.”
Travel Juneau paid $50,000 to license this year’s event. Perry stated that they had an Ironman contract for the 2023 and twenty24 races, but hadn’t made any payments.
