Racing returns to Montgomery County beginning today and running through Sunday. The annual GNCC Ironman will take place at Ironman Raceway with an expected crowd to exceed 16,000 riders and fans.
The race event is a staple in the county and residents are realizing what to expect. There will be increased traffic on the south end of Crawfordsville. Local grocery stores and restaurants also will have an increase in customers.
Tim Cotter, GNCC Ironman race director, said he is appreciative of the community support the GNCC receives from Crawfordsville and Montgomery County.
“Race fans are welcomed by street banners and in many other ways,” Cotter said. “This is the largest event we have every year. The Tom Shaver family is tremendous to work with.”
GNCC and the Montgomery County Community Foundation will again team up to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer. The campaign, Race for the Cure, raised $10,000 last year for the foundation’s Faith Alliance Fund.
Children in attendance will have an opportunity to trick-or-treat on the raceway grounds and there will be a Halloween costume contest Saturday.
Many riders and fans will camp at Ironman Raceway and other local campgrounds. Hotels have been heavily booked for several months due to the race.
Those attending are being informed of the county’s burn ban order. Only gas grills will be allowed to have flames for cooking. Campfires will not be allowed.
Racing will commence at 8 a.m. Saturday and continue until the professional bike race scheduled for 1 p.m. Sunday.
