To the editor:

Keeping the debate of economics aside, Ironman 70.3 deserves a thank-you for their efficiency in setting up and taking down of this huge event. Lake Placid is used to hosting the influx of large groups of athletes, but what is often left behind is another matter.

Taking a walk each morning with garbage bag in hand, my trash load varies with these events and the number of people in town. The area I cover includes village tennis courts, park, beach, Adirondack Community Church and the post office. This morning (the morning after the Ironman 70.3) I was hard pressed to find anything for my trash bag. One can say that this is expected of an event, but that is rarely the outcome. Most events result in our village being left with excess trash. It is rare that the landscape is left cleaner than before the event, but this was the case.

Over the weekend, I was working in my yard and was asked by an individual if I lived here. Once confirmed, their statement was, “Thank you for hosting this event.” That I haven’t heard before. Greg Borzilleri and the Ironman team do an excellent job assembling and breaking down these events, bringing thousands of new and returning visitors to the region; therefore they deserve a thank-you.

Lastly, unknown too many, Ironman donates thousands of dollars worth of products to the community after the event. I am part of a group that puts on a not-for-profit half-marathon in October, and we are the benefactor of Ironman goods and products. This saves us hundreds of dollars that help make our event successful, and increase our contribution to multiple community groups.

Thank you,

Richard Preston

Lake Placid