MADISON, Wis. -- As athletes prepare for this weekend's Ironman Triathlon, so too are Dane County officials as they expect traffic delays.

The competition begins at 7 a.m. on Sunday and participants will be traveling along roads in Madison, Fitchburg, Verona, Mount Horeb and other areas of western Dane County.

The triathlon is likely to create significant traffic delays and the Dane County Sheriff's Office is asking motorists to be patient and plan ahead.

According to a Dane County Sheriff's Office news release, deputies, police officers and volunteers will direct traffic at all major intersections along the course. The sheriff's office also asks that motorists use caution when approaching the intersections and follow the traffic directions given by law enforcement to insure the safety of the motorists, competitors and spectators.

The competition consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike race and a 26.2 mile run.

For more information about the Ironman Triathlon, please click here: Ironman Wisconsin