Ironman Port Macquarie can expect a larger event in 2020 for the 35th anniversary of the Australian race, according to Ironman Oceania regional director Ben Herbert.
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This year's event may have been run and won but that doesn't stop speculation of a bigger field taking part in 2020 than the record 3000 competitors this year.
The fastest times for 2019 were recorded by professional Ironman competitors Cameron Wurf (8:06:17) and Laura Siddall (9:11:58) in the main event on May 5.
The first local finisher across the line for the Ironman 70.3 was Port Macquarie's Robert Johnston with a time of four hours, 47 minutes and 21 seconds.
Followed by Craig Whiting at four hours, 54 minutes and 29 second then Jimbo Sanderson three minutes behind (4.57.33) and David McDonald, four minutes behind (4.58.28)
"Feedback has been really good so far, athletes are happy which is great," said Ironman Oceania regional director Ben Herbert.
"It's our 35th year next year so the event will be bigger, as we were in 2015 for the 30th year."
This year's event in Port Macquarie has been a solid success and there is not likely to be any major changes in following years until 2021, said Mr Herbert.
"It (the race finish and spectators) was packed. I've been here for my sixth year now and I've never seen anything like it," he said.
"I really think the increased athlete numbers played a part, people bringing more people to town with them.
"One athlete usually brings two to three spectators with them. It's a really good outcome for all involved and for the economy.
"When you've got a guy that beats the course record (Ironman 2019 winner Cameron Wurf), got Laura Siddall who is crowned as a three time champion and the best racing conditions you can have, it shows Port Macquarie off live to people all around the world."
Mr Herbert said the event would be winding down throughout this week and called for patience from residents.
"We're still in town to help clean up," he said.
"What we've put back into the community over the 10 years, between us and the local organising committee, is over $475,000.
"We ask everyone to have a bit of patience, we'll get the place nice and tidy to leave it the way we found it."
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