Celebrity chef and presenter Gordon Ramsay has confirmed that he will be taking part in Ironman Wales 2014, at the event which takes place in and around Tenby on Sunday, September 14.

Ramsay's confirmation to race Ironman Wales follows the success of his inaugural Ironman experience at the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, in October last year.

Here he proved that he is not only a force to be reckoned with in the kitchen, but also physically and mentally as an Ironman athlete, finishing in an impressive 14:04:48 for the 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2 mile marathon, despite the soaring temperatures and windy conditions that Hawaii is notorious for.

It will be this experience that puts Gordon in good stead for Ironman Wales, as the event is reputedly one of the toughest on the European circuit. Staged in the heart of Tenby, the surrounding countryside of Pembrokeshire not only provides a spectacular setting for this ultimate challenge, but its phenomenal atmosphere rivals any other Ironman worldwide.

Whilst the course may push the boundaries for the athletes with its 1,750m of climbing combined with unpredictable Welsh conditions, the support of the crowds and electric atmosphere is what the event has become renowned for.

On commenting why he had chosen Ironman Wales as his next challenge, Ramsay said: "When I was growing up in Stratford-Upon-Avon, Tenby was a destination for our family holidays which I have never forgotten.

"I have happy memories of the beautiful beaches and amazing scenic backdrop and am looking forward to now racing there for the first time at Ironman Wales," he added.

Ramsay will be up against a sell-out 2,150 athletes taking part in the event, with 322 in his age group, male 45-49 category, with the top athlete in this age group finishing last year in a time of 10:16:03.

Kevin Stewart, managing director of Ironman UK and Ireland, commented: "We are delighted that Gordon has chosen Wales for his return to Ironman racing.

"We know the athletes love the demanding course, in part because the public turns out in huge numbers to support all the athletes. We look forward to welcoming Gordon and all our athletes to Pembrokeshire in September."