����ý

Thousands turned out to enjoy and take part in the third Ironman triathlon in Swansea on Sunday.

Competitors in tackled a route which included the city's dockside, the Mumbles and Gower areas, and the bay’s waterfront.

Competitors came from around the world to take on a 1.2 mile (1.9km) swim, a 56 mile (90km) bike course and a 13.1 mile (21km) run.

Swansea Council cabinet member Robert Francis-Davies called the free-to-watch race "a great sporting day for the city".

“This event will inspire even more people to compete in sport and to enjoy our fabulous local area and facilities," he added.

“We thank all local residents and businesses that changed their regular routines to accommodate it.”

Ironman 70.3 Swansea race director Rebecca Sutherland said: “It’s always special when we go racing in Wales, and today had some of the biggest and best crowds we’ve ever seen here in Swansea.

“The support around the course was amazing and well deserved for all the incredible athletes out there.

"We can’t wait to return next year.”

The athletes were racing for slots to qualify for the 2025 VinFast Ironman 70.3 World Championship, to be held in Marbella, Spain.

Having completed the gruelling course first, 27-year-old GB pro Harry Palmer said: “It feels absolutely incredible."

Winner in the women's category, Gloucestershire's Nikki Bartlett thanked the cheering crowds for their support.

"They made it feel like the run was downhill and gave me goose bumps throughout the whole thing," she said.

"It’s taken me nine pro years to get my first Ironman 70.3 win, never - so never give up.”

It is estimated that the Ironman 70.3 event brought around 20,000 spectators to Swansea, and together with the World Triathlon Para Series it is estimated to be worth millions for the local economy.

Next year’s Ironman 70.3 Swansea date is 13 July and entries will open in the next few weeks.