Hundreds of volunteers still needed for Ironman Santa Rosa race

With just days before hundreds of athletes begin arriving in Sonoma County, the Ironman Santa Rosa triathlon is still seeking about 500 volunteers to help with Saturday’s endurance event.

The full-length triathlon, which covers twice the distance of May’s 70.3 race, needs volunteers for an array of roles: athlete check-in, crowd control, safety patrols on Lake Sonoma and aid station staffers.

About 2,200 athletes are expected to complete in the race, which includes a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and marathon that begins and finishes in downtown Santa Rosa.

“It’s a fun experience and a great way to support the athletes,” said volunteer director Tawnya Nason.

Volunteers get fed on race day, receive a free T-shirt, and are treated to an appreciation dinner and raffle Sunday after the event, Nason said.

Anyone interested in volunteering can register at srcity.org/IRONMAN, ironman.com or email santarosa@ironmanvolunteers.com.