Ironman organizers have been searching for years for a place near Tallinn for the swimming stage. Harku lake and Stroomi beach have water cleanliness issues.
"When we looked at water quality before the competition, both Harku and Stroomi beach had purple flags, meaning swimming wasn't recommended. But water samples from Raku lake were clean," said Ironman chief organizer Ain-Alar Juhanson.
Raku lake is located on Tallinn's border and can accommodate a 3.8 km distance. Since it's a mining area, swimming stage participation requires special permission from Silikaat Group. The company will suspend operations during the competition.
"This is a temporary solution just for this competition. We hope to create a beautiful recreational area by Raku lake," said Juhanson.
For this, the state must transfer the area to Tallinn city. According to the Land Board, much preparatory work and inter-agency coordination is needed. Currently you can only walk dogs by the lake.
"This isn't a hopeless endeavor. We're glad temporary permits are being issued for various events," said Tallinn deputy mayor Monika Haukanõmm.
Juhanson wanted to organize Ironman World Championships in Estonia this year, but lack of suitable swimming location prevented it.
"A major competition would bring 10,000 participants and their companions. Infrastructure must be in order," said Juhanson.
Juhanson hopes to organize world championships by 2028, but the lakeside area needs development. The Land Board is ready to issue temporary permits for area use.