×

Ironman code of conduct goes both ways

Athletes participate in the bike portion of the 2019 Ironman Lake Placid race. (News photo — Lou Reuter)

One of the byproducts of the Ironman Task Force meetings last year was the new code of conduct for Ironman Lake Placid triathletes. Major complaints from locals have included Ironman athletes going to the bathroom on private property, being rude to locals and taking up too much highway space on bicycles while training.

It’s important to note that this code of conduct is exclusive to the Lake Placid race. We hope, for the sake of communities all over the world where Ironman hosts events, that this is the first — not the only — athlete code of conduct distributed.

We appreciate the effort and sensitivity Ironman officials put into the code of conduct. We also know that neighborly behavior goes both ways.

Locals understand that tourism drives the Adirondack economy; therefore, as hosts — whether they work in the tourism industry or not — most residents are always kind and generous to visitors. Yet — as we’ve seen with the Ironman race — tensions can arise, and neighborly behavior can turn sour in a hurry, on both sides.

Ironman Lake Placid’s athlete code of conduct is titled “Train Like A Champion, Act Like A Champion.” The code of conduct for full-time Adirondack residents could be “Host Like A Family, Act Like A Family.” We don’t want to drive away visitors; we want them to enjoy their stay and return. So, please, treat them like family.

Ironman athlete code of conduct

– I understand that I am a cycling guest of the region and must be conscious of my role as an ambassador for the cycling community and Ironman.

– I will obey all traffic regulations and maintain a “safety first” mentality while riding at all times.

– I agree to abstain from making obscene gestures or language directed to any persons while visiting the Adirondacks.

– I understand that reckless behavior puts cyclists at risk and damages the cycling culture.

– I agree to respect the beauty of the Adirondacks and personal property. I will refrain from littering and will only use designated portable or public restrooms.

– I will practice good sportsmanship and conduct myself in a professional manner at all times.

Starting at $1.44/week.

Subscribe Today