Chamber May Dump Ironman CdA

After a successful run of Ironman competitions, the Coeur d’Alene Area Chamber of Commerce is evaluating whether it will continue to sponsor the event after 2016. There’s little doubt that Ironman is an inspirational race that benefits the community, said Steve Wilson, the chamber’s president and chief executive officer. About 2,300 athletes converge on Coeur d’Alene in late June for the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run. They bring family and friends with them, filling hotels for the weekend and ringing up sales at restaurants and shops. … But the chamber pays nearly $100,000 each year to the for-profit World Triathlon Corp. to bring the event to Coeur d’Alene/ Becky Kramer , SR. More here . (SR file photo: Competitors exit the water before re-entering for a second lap during the 2013 Ironman triathlon in Coeur d’Alene)