Ironman competitors prep for Madison event on Sunday - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

MADISON (WKOW) -- Ironman competitors are getting mentally and physically prepared for Sunday's race in Madison.

On Friday, some of the athletes gathered to talk about their preparation and why they chose to come to Madison. Many of them consider this location one of the most difficult events on the Ironman race schedule, but they say it's the community's support that brings them back.

"I've raced on I don't know how many continents--everyone where Ironman is offered--and the crowd support here in Madison to me is the best in the World. Even better than the world championships," said Ironman competitor Hilary Biscay.

About 45,000 people are expected to cheer on the competitors. The event consists of a 2.4 miles swim on Lake Monona, a 112-mile bike race, and a 26.2-mile marathon in and around Downtown Madison. The Dane County Sheriff's Office says drivers should expect traffic delays if they're going in and around the area.

Click here for information on the event, including maps of where the competitors will swim, bike and run on Sunday.