Ironman California race weekend has officially begun in Sacramento, attracting more than 3,400 athletes from around the world and providing a substantial economic boost to the region. Dave Eadie from Visit Sacramento said the event has become a highlight on the city’s calendar. “It’s a huge event for Sacramento,” said Eadie. More than 3,400 athletes from around the world are in town to compete, turning Sacramento into an international destination.RELATED | Road closures for Ironman CaliforniaThe influx of athletes, along with their families and friends, also benefits local businesses. “It’s all of those athletes, their family and friends eating in our restaurants, staying in our hotels, and supporting our small businesses,” Eadie said.The event is expected to bring more than $50 million to the region, with money flowing directly into the heart of local businesses. In Midtown, Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar is already experiencing the impact. “We’re seeing a lot of different crowds of new faces coming through.” Bartender Andres Lopez said the staff prepared early to handle the weekend rush, offering a variety of menu options, including enchiladas, taco salads, and burritos. “It’s more motivation for tourists to come in and for us to keep our doors open,” said Lopez.Eadie highlighted the long-term benefits of hosting successful events like Ironman California, stating, “When you host events like this and do it successfully, it builds momentum and brings even more events to Sacramento.”From world-class athletes to local restaurants, Ironman California isn’t just a race; it’s a win for Sacramento. Event organizers say Ironman California will remain in Sacramento through 2028.See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel

SACRAMENTO, Calif. —

Ironman California race weekend has officially begun in Sacramento, attracting more than 3,400 athletes from around the world and providing a substantial economic boost to the region.

Dave Eadie from Visit Sacramento said the event has become a highlight on the city’s calendar.

“It’s a huge event for Sacramento,” said Eadie.

More than 3,400 athletes from around the world are in town to compete, turning Sacramento into an international destination.

RELATED | Road closures for Ironman California

The influx of athletes, along with their families and friends, also benefits local businesses.

“It’s all of those athletes, their family and friends eating in our restaurants, staying in our hotels, and supporting our small businesses,” Eadie said.

The event is expected to bring more than $50 million to the region, with money flowing directly into the heart of local businesses.

In Midtown, Azul Mexican Food and Tequila Bar is already experiencing the impact.

“We’re seeing a lot of different crowds of new faces coming through.”

Bartender Andres Lopez said the staff prepared early to handle the weekend rush, offering a variety of menu options, including enchiladas, taco salads, and burritos.

“It’s more motivation for tourists to come in and for us to keep our doors open,” said Lopez.

Eadie highlighted the long-term benefits of hosting successful events like Ironman California, stating, “When you host events like this and do it successfully, it builds momentum and brings even more events to Sacramento.”

From world-class athletes to local restaurants, Ironman California isn’t just a race; it’s a win for Sacramento.

Event organizers say Ironman California will remain in Sacramento through 2028.

See more coverage of top California stories here | Download our app | Subscribe to our morning newsletter | Find us on YouTube here and subscribe to our channel