Ironman 70.3 Texas brings 2,000 athletes, traffic impacts to Galveston

This weekend, over 2,000 athletes from all over the world are anticipated to travel to Galveston Island for the Memorial Hermann Ironman 70.3 Texas Triathlon, an annual endurance competition that will cause traffic jams in some areas of the West End.

The marathon, which starts at Moody Gardens on Sunday, March 29, will include a 13.1-mile run along the Gulf Coast, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 1.2-mile swim.

According to the Ironman Texas website, athletes travel from all over the world to compete in one of Texas' top triathlon events, which emphasizes the race's rising reputation.

Activities are anticipated to continue throughout the afternoon once the event begins at 7 a.m., and there will probably be traffic effects for the most of the day.

Although the majority of the race takes place in Moody Gardens and the surrounding neighborhoods, the cycling portion crosses important island roads and heads toward the mainland, causing delays and lane closures. Officials advise residents and guests to make advance plans and factor in additional travel time.

Road closures and detours during peak race hours are anticipated in parts of the West End, including sections close to FM3005, Stewart Road, and the San Luis Pass region.

The course itself features a swim in Offatts Bayou, a flat but frequently windy cycling path along the Gulf Coast, and a multi-loop run through Moody Gardens to highlight Galveston's coastal splendor.

According to city officials, traffic delays are only transitory and mostly limited to race routes; once highways reopen later in the day, normal conditions should return.

But the message is clear for West End residents: get ready for a hectic weekend as one of the biggest athletic events on the island returns, plan alternate routes, and expect traffic.