Ironman Wales entries for the 2013 event, to be held on Sunday, September 8, are more than 50 per cent up on the same time last year and organisers want to remind those local athletes, who may have been holding off with taking the plunge that tomorrow (Saturday), the late entry fee of £415 will apply rather than the £375 price currently.

With Ironman Wales one of only two full-distance Ironman races in Europe still open for entries, organisers are expecting a rush to secure the final places in the race.

Kevin Stewart, managing director for Ironman, said: "It shows the growing reputation of Ironman Wales that athletes are entering so much earlier than in previous years.

"The support given to athletes on the course has become a signature for the Wales event and we are hoping that record crowds will turn out on September 8 to support a record field of athletes.

"We have seen an increasing entry from the local community, with over 20 athletes entered from Tenby alone, and we want to make sure that no one misses out if they have decided to make Ironman their goal in 2013."

To mark the third Ironman Wales, organisers are also creating a special memento for those athletes who will complete their hat-trick of Ironman Wales' finishes this year.

Of over 100 athletes who have completed the race in 2011 and 2012, just over half have already signed up for this year's race, including a number of local athletes.

For information and entry to the event visit http://www.IronmanWales.com">www.IronmanWales.com