Triathlon Ironman 70.3 Augusta canceled due to Helene

AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The annual Ironman 70.3 Augusta triathlon has been canceled in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which caused flooding, power problems and other destruction in Augusta early Friday.

The annual event normally brings more than 2,000 athletes to the Augusta area.

But it would be impossible for the event to take place because many of the routes are blocked by fallen trees and power lines, and because the Savannah River is swollen by debris and bacteria-laden runoff.

Fallen trees from Helene are causing problems on roads along the CSRA.

The organizers issued this statement:

“Throughout the race week, IRONMAN worked with local partners, authorities and meteorologists to assess the track and potential impact of Hurricane Helene. While initial projections indicated we would be able to proceed as planned, based on the significant impact caused by the storm last night, IRONMAN and local Augusta officials have mutually agreed that it is necessary to postpone the 2024 IRONMAN 70.3 Augusta Triathlon , which is scheduled for Sunday, September 29. The storm moved further east than expected overnight and key locations suffered significant damage: downed power lines and trees, and an overwhelming amount of rainfall leading to flooding, all of which impacted the area. In addition, 200,000 residents are without power and medical services have been diverted to support the local community in this time of need, making them unavailable to support the race. As things deteriorated overnight, it became very clear that this was the only decision that could be made in the best interest of the safety of our athletes, volunteers, staff and the well-being of the Augusta community.

Mayor Garnett Johnson noted at a news conference Friday that the vacated hotel rooms should now be available to those whose homes may have been damaged by Helene.