09-26-14 First Responders to Compete in Ironman

Four Chattanooga police officers and two Chattanooga firefighters are among the more than 2,500 participants who will swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run a full marathon (26.2 miles) in Chattanooga's first IRONMAN competitions.

"Not only are we looking forward to welcoming visiting athletes to our City, it's exciting to see so many Chattanoogans ready to compete," said Mayor Andy Berke. "Each athlete has his or her personal reason for competing. So while this event will have an incredible impact on our City, it will also have an incredible impact on the individuals and their families who have worked so hard to get here."

Officers competing include Chattanooga Police Department's Sergeant Justin Kilgore, Officer John Tolson, Officer Jennifer Lockhart, and Officer Steve York.

"Our first responders are certainly right for this event," said Chattanooga Police Chief Fred Fletcher. "It takes extraordinary determination, dedication, and self-discipline to prepare for a race like this and I know our men and women will do great this Sunday."

Firefighters competing include Chattanooga Fire Department's Lt. Eric Stone and Senior Firefighter Jason Greer.

"By competing in a strenuous physical event like IRONMAN, our firefighters are representing Chattanooga and making us all proud. I wish all athletes the best of luck this Sunday," said Chattanooga Fire Chief Lamar Flint.

Sunday's IRONMAN will be the first of five hosted in Chattanooga. It is sponsored by Little Debbie and benefits the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America. The five-year contracted event is expected to have a $40 million economic impact on our region and bring thousands of visitors to Chattanooga.