The Wildman Triathlon Experience, held in Lawrenceburg, Ky., is proud to announce it has won the prestigious bid to host the 2025 USA Triathlon (USAT) Long Course National Championships. The event, scheduled for September 20, 2025, will feature the long course triathlon, duathlon, Aquabike, and the Olympic race, drawing between 700-1,000 competitors and 1,200-1,500 spectators from across the nation.
This marks a significant achievement for Lawrenceburg, placing it on the map alongside previous host cities such as Miami, Oklahoma City, and Grand Rapids. The recognition brings unparalleled national attention to the small Kentucky town, known for its bourbon heritage, but now poised to shine in the world of competitive sports tourism.
Economic Impact of Sports Tourism
Sports tourism continues to be a driving force in local economies, and events like the USAT Long Course National Championships are no exception. In cities like Louisville, which hosted the iconic Ironman race for several years, sports tourism has proven to bring millions in economic impact in just a weekend. Hotels, restaurants, and small businesses will see an influx of visitors, boosting Lawrenceburg’s local economy. Jobs and charitable impact created by the event are also part of the boost experienced by the local community.
“We are, of course, a legendary bourbon town and will continue to promote ourselves as such, but bringing this important sporting event to our area is like winning the Olympic bid or getting our own Keeneland,” said Robbie Morgan, Director of Tourism. “The economic impact is huge, but having our local residents have a sense of pride in what we offer and then having so many competitors leave our town with a good impression is, to borrow a cliché, priceless.”
Challenging and Beautiful Course
The inaugural Wildman Triathlon, held in 2024, gave many athletes their first taste of Lawrenceburg’s demanding terrain, with competitors praising the town’s natural beauty while noting the difficulty of the course. “The course was one of the most challenging I’ve ever competed in,” expressed one triathlete, echoing the sentiments of many who were drawn to the picturesque yet rigorous landscape.
The town’s warm hospitality and challenging course. “Lawrenceburg has been so supportive of this race from the get-go. I’ve done a lot of races in other places, and what Lawrenceburg offers in beauty and challenge is right up there with the highest-level competitions. But the hospitality, the local people, is what makes Lawrenceburg a really special place.”
Spectator Experience and Community Involvement In addition to the thrilling race events, organizers have made changes to enhance the spectator and community experience. The post-race events will be open to the public and the route will be tweaked to ensure easy access for spectators while minimizing traffic disruptions.
Local businesses will have opportunities to participate in race celebrations, making it a win-win for athletes, visitors, and residents alike.
Race organizers have assured participants that while the 2025 course will maintain the same beautiful, challenging design as the 2024 event, adjustments will be made to further improve traffic flow and safety.
A Bright Future for Lawrenceburg
With the announcement of the 2025 USAT Long Course National Championships, Lawrenceburg is positioned to become a destination for top-level athletes and sports enthusiasts. The event will not only boost the local economy but also provide the town with an opportunity to show the country what makes Lawrenceburg unique—its stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and a community spirit that embraces both its rich history and its bright future.