AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) – The annual Ironman 70.3 Augusta Triathlon has been canceled as a result Hurricane Helene, which brought flooding, power problems and other devastation to Augusta early Friday.

The annual event typically brings more than 2,000 athletes to the Augusta area.

But it would be impossible to hold the event because many routes are blocked by fallen trees and power lines and the Savannah River is flooded with debris and bacteria-laden runoff.

The organizers issued this statement:

“Throughout race week, IRONMAN worked with local partners, authorities and meteorologists to assess the trajectory and potential impacts of Hurricane Helene. While initial forecasts looked as if we would be able to proceed as planned due to the significant impact of the storm overnight, IRONMAN and local Augusta officials have mutually agreed that the IRONMAN 70.3 Augusta Triathlon scheduled for 2024 must be canceled Sunday, March 29th .September. The storm moved further east than expected overnight and key venues suffered significant damage from downed power lines and trees, as well as overwhelming amounts of rainfall, resulting in flooding, all of which impacted the area. Additionally, 200,000 residents are without power and medical supplies have been diverted to support the local community during this time of need, making them unavailable to support the race. As the situation deteriorated overnight, it became very clear that this was the only decision that could be made in the interest of the safety of our athletes, volunteers, staff and the well-being of the Augusta community.”

Mayor Garnett Johnson noted at a news conference Friday that the vacated hotel rooms should now be available to those whose homes may have been damaged by Helene.

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