Rockford, IL — In just a few weeks, the Rockford community will welcome approximately 2,500 athletes and over 7,500 spectators to the inaugural IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon on June 22. GoRockford is calling on the community to be part of the action. Volunteers are at the heart of IRONMAN events, playing a critical role in delivering a world-class experience for athletes and spectators. Hundreds of volunteers are needed, and spots are available throughout the weekend.

Why Volunteer?
Volunteering at IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois is a unique opportunity to be part of a global sporting phenomenon while showcasing Rockford’s incredible community spirit. Volunteers will receive an official IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois volunteer shirt. The race weekend will be an exciting way for residents to help welcome athletes to the community and be a part of an extraordinary event. Volunteer captains’ spots are still available for those interested in leading a group and helping recruit volunteers. Additional individual volunteer opportunities include athlete check-in, crowd control, civilian safety boats to assist the transport of lifeguards or spotters, swim start/finish, motorcycle transportation, aide stations and more.

"Whether you're an athlete or not, watching these athletes push their limits is something to experience. Most are just like you and me — they just set their minds to overcoming fear,” said Chris Hankins, volunteer director for IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois. “To watch someone celebrate conquering what seemed impossible to them is powerful. Our volunteers will have a special window on all of it. And I suspect in the weeks and months afterward, they'll be sharing stories about how they were a part of it when IRONMAN came to Rockford."

“This event will bring thousands of visitors to Rockford, and it simply cannot happen without our volunteers,” said Lindsay Arellano, GoRockford Vice President of Sales and Service. “It’s an unforgettable way to get involved, meet new people, and show the world what Rockford hospitality is all about.”

Event Details: IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois triathlon

  • Volunteer Dates: June 20 - June 22, 2025 (race day is Sunday, June 22)
  • Location: Various locations throughout Rockford, including the Rock River, and additional areas as needed. 
  • Triathlon Course:
    • Swim: 1.2 miles in the Rock River
    • Bike: 56 miles through Rockford and scenic countryside north of the city into Rockton
    • Run: 13.1 miles throughout downtown Rockford and along the riverfront

Urgent Volunteer Needs
While all areas of the event require support, several key roles are especially critical for a successful race day.

  • Kayak, Canoes, Stand-Up Paddleboard Support Crew: Help ensure athlete safety on the swim course by providing kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard support along the Rock River.
  • Lifeguards: Lifeguard volunteers will assist with water safety during the swim portion of the race.
  • Transition Area Assistants: Volunteers in the transition zone help athletes move smoothly and safely between the swim, bike, and run portions of the race.
  • Environmental Crew: Volunteers will assist with keeping the Ironman venue clean, including picking up trash as needed, monitoring trash receptacles, replacing bags, and taking full bags to the dumpsters. Areas include, but are not limited to, walkways, green spaces at the swim start and swim finish, the expo area, the transition area, and the finish line area.

How to Sign Up
Individuals, charitable groups, school groups, athletic teams, service clubs, and businesses are encouraged to sign up. Volunteers must be 14 years or older.  Interested volunteers can visit https://ironman.volunteerlocal.com/volunteer/?id=88525 to view all available open spots and register today. The deadline for volunteer sign-up is June 8, 2025.

About: GoRockford is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, GoRockford strengthens the region's economic position and provides opportunities for people in our communities. www.gorockford.com

 

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Lindsay Arellano, GoRockford Vice President of Sales and Service, 815.489.1664, larellano@gorockford.com

Chris Hankins, Volunteer Director IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford-Illinois, 815.708.4408, chris.hankins@ironman.com