Thousands of athletes descended on Tenby this morning (Sunday, September 3) with the sporting spectacular that is Ironman Wales returning to Pembrokeshire.

Proceeding the race at 6.55 am was the moment that sends shivers down the spine, when Ironman competitors stand at the ready on Tenby’s iconic North Beach waiting to ‘face the dragon’ along with thousands of spectators, absorbing a rousing ‘Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau’.

The triathlon beings with a goosebump inducing swim preceded by the Welsh National Anthem which is a spectacle in itself.

Once completing the 2.4-mile swim course, athletes make the long run up the ‘zig zag’ stairs and into transition, which is a once in a lifetime experience for any triathlete.

The bike course consists of a 112-mile route through the scenic countryside of Pembrokeshire Coast National Parkand follows onto the four-loop 26.2-mile run course.

It takes athletes past the medieval town walls and picturesque beachfront, which is lined with tens of thousands of spectators that will push them all the way to the finish line along The Esplanade overlooking South Beach.

Tenby’s Mayor, Cllr Dai Morgan will be on hand at the finish line congratulating finishers and giving out their medals as they complete their gruelling challenge.

Around 3,000 athletes are competing in Ironman Wales, and with 93% of the athletes coming from the UK, the race is set to feel like a real home affair.

The remainder of athletes are from all over the world in countries such as Germany, Switzerland and France.

Ironman Wales will also return to Tenby in 2024 with the race taking place on Sunday, September 22.