Clinton Lake is set to play host to one of the more prestigious triathlon events in the country next year, after Douglas County Commissioners signed off on the event at a meeting this morning.

Parts of Clinton Lake are expected to attract upwards of 2,000 athletes to compete in an officially-sanctioned IronMan Triathlon event on June 15 that also will serve as the National Collegiate IronMan Championships.

“I think this could be a very high-profile event that could be very good for the community,” Douglas County Commissioner Bob Johnson said.

Commissioners approved the use of county roads for the event – which will include a 1.2 mile swim, 56-mile bike race, and 13.1 mile run – on a 2-0 vote. County Commissioner Jere McElhaney was absent.

Commissioners said they were fine with the event as long as the Sheriff’s Department and the Public Works Department deemed the usage of the roads workable. Both departments have agreed to the routes, with the understanding that the county will be paid for any direct costs the two departments incur preparing for the event.

Most of the race – dubbed IronMan Kansas – will take place at the Bloomington Park area of Clinton Lake. But portions of the bicycle race will take place off of Corps of Engineer property, and will involve some road closings.

Lawrence-based Sherpa Sports is organizing the race. Ryan Robinson, Sherpa’s president, told commissioners in a letter that there are only 11 IronMan events currently held in the United States. He’s estimating that the race could generate $2 million to $3 million in economic impact for the city.

Lew Ruona, the project manager for the Corps of Engineers at Clinton Lake, said the Corps is close to giving final approval for the event.

“I think it will do a really great job of showcasing the lake,” Ruona said.