The IRONMAN 70.3 Western Mass triathlon is back for it’s third year! Enjoy a 1.2 mile downstream swim in the Connecticut River, a rolling 56 mile bike ride through the rural roads of New England, and a 13.1 mile run that takes you through downtown Springfield. Athletes will have a downriver swim in the Connecticut River which will start at North Riverfront Park finishing 1.2 miles south at Riverfront Park. They will exit the water and head to a close by transition area along the Connecticut Riverwalk. The single loop bike course will head west out of Springfield and towards the beautiful Berkshires region, through the Granville area before returning back through Westfield and West Springfield. Enjoy picturesque views and great road quality along the way of this 56 mile journey. The fast and flat run course will take you along the Connecticut Riverwalk aligned with greenery and views of the river. Be prepared to head into downtown Springfield for an urban vibe finish line. Court Square, from East Columbus Avenue to State Street, will be blocked off from 8 a.m. Saturday until 8 p.m. Sunday. The North and South End bridges will be partially closed Sunday.