STATE COLLEGE — The countdown is on.
The Ironman 70.3 Pennsylvania Happy Valley is right around the corner. The triathlon will take place on July 2 in locations throughout Centre and Clinton counties. Director Josh Cone said that things are coming together nicely in preparation for the first-ever Ironman event in Centre County.
“The event is really coming together well and we are excited to see athletes from all over the country here in central Pennsylvania,” he said.
Cone said the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
“The response has been fantastic. There’s been a lot of questions as to what the Ironman triathlon is. Also, the look of disbelief that people would swim 1.2 miles, bike 56 over Centre Hall Mountain and then run 13.1 miles,” Cone said.
There is, however, still a need for volunteers. Cone is hoping that community members will step up and volunteer.
“(We’re) just getting the word out for volunteers to jump in and get involved. It’s a fun way that non-profits can be involved as a team and raise money for their group through the Ironman foundation grant,” Cone said.
According to Cone, volunteers are still needed for morning clothes bag drop at Bald Eagle State Park as well as bag pick-up at Beaver Stadium.
Early weather forecasts show a high of 82 on July 2. The triathlon will stretch across Centre County and beyond.
For those on the fence about volunteering, Cone is hopeful that people will try their hand at it.
“Come join an event that’s high energy, full of passion, watching people chase dreams. … (It’s) a great way to jump in and be involved in something really special that’s happening in our backyard. I’m excited to show the world how awesome central Pennsylvania is,” Cone said.
To volunteer for Ironman, visit ironman.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=69790.