South Pembrokeshire is to host a brand new triathlon event.

The World Triathlon Corporation announced the addition of Ironman Wales to its calendar of events at a press conference on Friday - the first day of the Long Course Weekend.

Scheduled for Sunday, September 11, 2011, Ironman Wales will take place around Tenby, with a 3.8K sea swim, a 112 mile bike ride and full 26.2 mile marathon.

Around 2,000 competitors from around the world are expected to attend.

The official website http://www.ironmanwales.com">www.ironmanwales.com is being launched today (Friday), the same day as registration opens.

Welsh Assembly Government Heritage Minister Alun Ffred Jones said: "The Welsh Assembly Government is delighted to support Ironman Wales over a three-year period. This event will raise the profile of Wales and Pembrokeshire as a destination for sport and will encourage visits for both recreational and training purposes.

"With an expectation for the need of approximately 8,000 room nights in Pembrokeshire during the shoulder season, this will also be an added bonus for the area's tourism industry.

"The Welsh Assembly Government is committed to encouraging people to live a healthier, more active lifestyle through its Change4Life programme, and with the side events offered by the event oganisers, such as IronKids and Everyone's Run, there will be an opportunity for everyone to get involved."

Matthew Evans, of Activity Wales, local partner of Ironman Wales, said: "Activity Wales is extremely excited to have been able to bring such a high profile world class brand to Pembrokeshire.

"The National Park that is Pembrokeshire will offer athletes a stunning course, whilst the passion of the local villages and towns will really create a European style atmosphere for supporters and athletes. This will be a truly memorable event and with Tenby's infrastructure, athletes really will just take over the town to create what will be an incredible week."

Kai Walter, managing director of Ironman European Headquarters, who flew in for the launch, said he was pleased with the location of the first Ironman Wales.

"Tenby and Pembrokeshire Coast National Park have a very special atmosphere. Ironman Wales is sure to attract triathletes from all over the world who wish to experience a challenging race in a unique location."

The news was also given the thumbs up by Mayor of Tenby, Clr. Mrs. Julie Evans, who said the event was a 'fantastic coup for Tenby' and was an event that would be welcomed 'with open arms'.