The Ironman 70.3 comes to Des Moines this weekend in what is being called a big economic boon for the region as the area continues its recovery from the coronavirus pandemic. The event on Sunday is expected to bring 10,000 visitors to the community and about $6 million to the local economy. The race will take athletes on a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run. Athletes will compete for 200 qualifying slots for the 2021 Intermountain Healthcare Ironman 70.3 World Championship in St. George, Utah. There will be an additional 25 Women for Tri qualifying slots up for grabs for the Ironman 70.3 World Championship. “After having to push it back a year due to COVID, we are more excited than ever to welcome another large-scale event and world-class athletes,” said Greg Edwards, president and CEO of Catch Des Moines. “This is another huge win for Des Moines.” Des Moines is also hosting the National Junior High Finals Rodeo beginning Sunday at the State Fairgrounds. The event, which continues through June 26, is expected to bring 1,000 athletes and their families to the metro area, and inject about $2.7 million into the local economy, officials at Catch Des Moines said.