Ironman 5i50 triathlon in 2016 under consideration for Vancouver
5i50 Series triathlon would draw over 2,500 competitors and 10,000 visitors
Vancouver Park Board commissioners are considering a three-year agreement with Ironman Canada for a triathlon to take place in downtown Vancouver in July 2016, potentially closing off roads in the popular tourist area during the height of the visitor season.
"This is a high-profile event that would attract people from all over the world," said Susie Ernsting, a race director with Ironman Canada.
"(It would) also give a chance for our local athletes here to engage in an international event without having to travel further abroad."
The Ironman 5i50 Series triathlon is a shorter distance than the full Ironman competition; it would include a 1.5 kilometre swim, a 40-kilometre bicycle ride, and a 10-kilometre run in Coal Harbour and Stanley Park, closing roads throughout the area during the event.
It's estimated the triathlon would draw 2,500 competitors and about 10,000 visitors to Vancouver, as well as add Vancouver to the roster of 22 countries that host the iconic events.
Ironman acquired the Subaru Vancouver Triathlon in 2014 with the intent of relocating the event to the downtown area in 2016, according to a Park Board report.
Some park commissioners expressed concern about how the event would affect traffic and other tourism opportunities during one of the city's busiest months.
Commissioner Stuart Mackinnon said he was concerned about disruption and public safety along the Seawall, despite staff assurances that it would not need to be closed for the event because the competitors' start times would be staggered.
Park Board Chair John Coupar also said he had some concerns.
"There's concerns about where the actual swimming route is. We have some great beach entry points that are downtown," said Coupar.
"I think with some reconfiguration this could be a terrific event."
The city has hosted large sports events in the downtown area in summer before. The Lululeman SeaWheeze half marathon takes place in August, with participants running a course partially around the Seawall.
The commissioners referred the matter to public discussion and will make a final decision on Oct. 21.
With files from Megan Batchelor