Thousands compete in Beach2Battleship Iron Triathlon | News

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - 2,000 athletes from 45 different states flocked to Wilmington this weekend for the Beach2Battleship Iron Triathlon.

Some said they were competing because an Ironman was on their bucket list; others said they had always wanted to do one but had never been able to because of their injuries.

Regardless of the reason, they all set off with the goal of crossing the finish line. Those who competed in the full Ironman covered more than 140 miles in saltwater and on the road.

The race did cause some traffic tie-ups.  Only one lane was open on the bridge into Wrightsville Beach, backing up cars to Military Cutoff Road.

Racers then made their way into Downtown Wilmington, causing some congestion at the intersection of Third and Greenfield. Most people said the tie-ups didn't stop them from getting where they were trying to go.