Ironman volunteer count lagging; Triathlon Sunday

COEUR d'ALENE — The volunteer count for Sunday's Ironman Coeur d'Alene triathlon is lagging compared to previous years during the week before the competition.

Dani Zibell-Wolfe, the race's volunteer director, said as of Monday there were 2,560 volunteers. In previous years, about 3,800 volunteers were used during the event.

"We have enough volunteers for our basic safety needs, but what we're looking for now is enough to really give the athletes a good time," she said. "Instead of there just being a handful of people at the aid stations, there could be several cheering the athletes on."

Volunteers ranging from massage therapists to motorcycle riders transporting media and officials on the course to aid station and gear bag helpers are needed.

Zibell-Wolfe said she believes people wanting to get last-minute summer vacations in, parents helping students return to college and the number of summer events that already required volunteers are reasons why the Ironman list is lagging.

Ironman, which includes a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run, starts at 6 a.m. on Sunday at City Park.

To volunteer, visit www.ironmancda.com.