Ironman Event Bringing Bucks To Lake Tahoe During Offseason

LAKE TAHOE (CBS13) — Cooler weather this weekend comes as the high country readies for the Ironman Triathlon, which is expected to bring big business to Lake Tahoe.

From packed restaurants to hotels that are all booked, to sporting goods stores selling Ironman accessories, millions of dollars are coming into Lake Tahoe from around the world.

Another picture-perfect Tahoe day had no clouds in the sky, as triathletes trained in the chilly water. They're bracing for cooler temperatures.

Dave Polivy wrapped up another busy day at Tahoe Mountain Sports at a time of the year when sales usually slump.

"We're looking at our sales as much as doubling this week this week for sure," he said.

The 2013 event is bringing in 2,600 athletes, 10,000 spectators and big bucks. Officials project and $8 to $10 million economic impact.

Hotel occupancy is up 20 percent year over year, and hotel revenue per room is up 40 percent.

Mark and Darla Hall came from Oklahoma to cheer on their daughter Lindsey.

"It's beautiful here; it's just really pretty," Darla said.

Another Mark crossed a much larger pond to compete: the Atlantic Ocean.

"I've been competing for 31 years," said Mark Kleanthous. "I've done 35 Ironman races. I've come all the way from London, England to enjoy the breathtaking view of Lake Tahoe."

He's ready to tackle a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike ride and a marathon run.

"Looking forward to an amazing race -- probably my toughest," Kleanthous said.

The race begins early Sunday in Kings Beach and wraps up 17 hours later in the village at Squaw Valley.