Major road closures will be in place this weekend for the Ironman taking place in Youghal.

The international event will see 2,300 competitors with an estimated 10,000 spectators.

As a result, a series of road closures will be in place to ensure the smooth running of the event.

The road closures mean some residents may not be able to drive to and from your home and have been advised to park their cars in a more accessible location.

The first Ironman event to be held in Ireland takes place on Sunday. General road closures will be in place from 5.30am on Sunday to 12 midnight. 

There will be further localised road closures in Youghal with a stop and go system on Saturday and Monday.

The N25, main Cork to Waterford Road, will remain open at all times and gardaí recommend it be utilised to travel to and from your destination.

"Whilst there is a number of crossing points along the route, residents should be aware that during the race you may not be able to drive to and from your home. We would recommend that you check if your home is on race route and if so, park your car somewhere that it can be accessed," gardaí said.

The event organisers on 085-1112031 or Midleton Garda Station on 021-462 1550.

Parking in Youghal is available at Youghal Rugby Club at a cost of €5. A shuttle bus service will run from there. 

Parking in Midleton and other routes along the cycle route will be in public car parks from where spectators can walk to the route and enjoy the event. Signs have been posted all along the race route and there will be a towing operation in place for any vehicle which is parked on the route.

Speaking at Midleton Garda Station today, Superintendent Adrian Gamble said: "This is the first ever official Ironman to take place in Ireland and we are delighted to have the event in Cork. Some 2,300 participants are set to take part and we expect in the region of 10,000 people to be in attendance."

"We are appealing to the residents and our community in the East Cork area to support the event and the emergency services during the Ironman. Please co-operate with Gardaí and stewards on the route to ensure the safety of all. We are working closely with our colleagues in the Fire and Ambulance Services to ensure continued service delivery throughout the event.”

The event organisers have set up a phone line if any resident, business or participant has any queries. The number is 085-1112031