Jacksonville IRONMAN Triathlon begins Saturday; US Coast Guard says there will be increased security

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The IRONMAN triathlon begins Saturday in Jacksonville, and the U.S. Coast Guard says it will step up security on the St. Johns River for the event.

Coast Guard officials said crews will deploy the 87-foot cutter Coho, with about 11 personnel, and a 29-foot response boat from Station Mayport with a four-person crew. Local public-safety partners, including the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, will also assist, officials said.

“Our number one priority for the event is the safety of the swimmers,” a Coast Guard official said, adding that the agencies will work together to keep the river clear for athletes.

What to know

• Safety zone: From Main Street to just past the Mathews Bridge on the St. Johns River.
• Hours: 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday. Boats should avoid the area during those times; emergency responses will still be handled by Coast Guard and local agencies.
• Scope: About 1,900 athletes are registered for the event.
• Today: Operations are expected to be normal; closures apply to race day only.

Coast Guard officials said partnerships with local agencies are critical to managing the large area and diverse missions required to keep competitors and the public safe