IRONMAN Florida: A Boost for Panama City Beach's Economy
More than 2,500 athletes from all 50 states and over 30 countries participated in the IRONMAN Florida race, which marked its 28th year as the longest consecutively running Ironman in the U.S.
The event attracted a large crowd, with thousands of spectators joining the athletes. The visitors also contributed significantly to the local economy by patronizing restaurants, hotels, and other businesses in Panama City Beach.
Ben Rausa, Visit PCB IRONMAN Florida race director, expressed his desire to see returning visitors: “They come down here for the first time and they fall in love with the place. We want them to come back.”
One participant, Balwin Der from Canada, plans to return with his family: “I’m gonna bring my family again. I’ve got two kids and they love swimming, so I think we’ll have a good time.”
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