Rockford, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Illinois’ first IRONMAN triathlon will be held in Rockford in 2025. Governor JB Pritzker made the announcement Monday and credited an $800,000 grant to the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (Go Rockford) in luring the event to Illinois. The grant is part of the state’s $15 million Tourism Grant Program, and the agreement allows for the IRONMAN 70.3 to be held in Rockford through 2027.

The economic impact of the event is anticipated to be more than $45 million over three years. Each race is expected to attract nearly 3,000 athletes and 15,000 visitors, filling an estimated 7,000 to 12,000 hotel room nights.

“We are excited to bring this new IRONMAN 70.3 event to this unique and beautiful area in northern Illinois,” said Eric Atnip, Race Director for the IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon. “Rockford has shown itself to be a charming midwestern destination city with an abundance of outdoor recreation. We are excited to partner with Go Rockford to offer this exciting new option on the North American IRONMAN 70.3 circuit for our many dedicated athletes. We can’t wait for athletes to come experience this welcoming community and see what makes Rockford so special in 2025.”

The triathlon will consist of a 1.2-mile swim on the Rock River, a 56-mile bike loop that takes athletes through the area north of Rockford and a 13.1-mile run that will take runners from Davis Park on a two-loop journey on the east and west banks of the Rock River.

“The new Tourism Incentive Program is enabling Illinois to attract new high-profile events that generate millions in economic impact,” said DCEO Director Kristin Richards. “Attracting IRONMAN is a testament to all Illinois has to offer and increases our opportunity to show visitors from across the globe why Illinois is the best place to live, work and do business.”

The grant funds will be used to support race day operations.