An international friendship on the road to the Ironman 70.3

ST. GEORGE — Pete Bowden said when he first found out that Ironman was considering holding a race in his hometown of 37 years, he was ecstatic.

Bowden had been involved in triathlon races since he was in high school, and the prospect of an official Ironman event in his home town was a “dream come true.” Bowden competed in his first Ironman race in St. George back in 2011.

Bowden said he trains six days a week, and living in St. George brings the added benefit of being able to train on the actual course where the championship will be held.

Triathlon events attract athletes and spectators from all over the world. But Bowden was never too involved with the international aspect of the races until Ironman announced that the 2021 World Championship 70.3 would be held in his hometown, and he and his wife would have the chance to host a professional athlete and her coach coming from the UK.

Nikki Bartlett is a professional athlete from Cheltenham, England. She’s been racing in triathlons for ten years. On a busy week, she puts in 25-32 hours of training.

Bartlett came to stay with the Bowdens for 10 days before the Ironman 70.3, training with Pete and preparing for the race together. She plans on exploring the area with the Bowdens after the race is over.

“Such a quaint but unique little town,” said Bartlett. “Probably one of the most picturesque courses we’ve been to, and I’ve done a lot of courses now. We’re already planning to come back next year.”

“I love the triathlon community, I love how warm and welcoming towns and cities are when you come to an event like this,” said Bartlett. “It leaves you with long lasting memories.”

Bowden said training with Bartlett has been a great opportunity. “It’s been awesome to have them with us, and to watch the commitment that these pros have to this sport,” said Bowden.

Bartlett wanted to say how grateful she was to the local community. “Pete and Stacy have been probably the biggest joy from the trip so far,” she said. “We’ve just felt so at home. These are the memories you share and remember for a lifetime.”