Triathlon Juice (TRIJUICE) - triathlon news & resource site

Rebecca Meyer's 50 in 50 by 30 Challenge Includes Triathlons

2012-02-04T16:10:26Z

Life After "The Biggest Loser" Continues to Be a Challenge for Rebecca Meyer

DES MOINES, IA -- The Midwest states are officially in the record books and it's on to more distant race locations for Rebecca Meyer's 50 in 50 by 30 Challenge for 2012.

"It's going to be a really busy year," said Meyer. "I'm looking forward to traveling and racing throughout the country, but what I'm most excited about is adding triathlons to the mix."

Rebecca is a novice triathlete, but she's excited about kicking off her experience at the HITS Triathlon Series Corpus Christi event on her way to becoming more experienced amateur triathlete. Thanks to sponsorship from Giant® Bicycles and Des Moines' Bike World, Meyer will be racing triathlons in at least three states so far this year but more events could be added.

• 5K, Sat., Feb. 4, Run Like a Girl Retreat, St. George, UT
• Sprint Triathlon, Sat., Feb. 18, HITS Triathlon Series, Corpus Christi, TX
• TowneBank 8K, Sat., Mar. 17, Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, Virginia Beach, VA
• 5K Fun Walk, Sat., Apr. 14, Gristmill Grinder Half Marathon, Babcock State Park, WV
• 8.15 Run, Sun., Apr. 15, Kent Island Metric Marathon & Half Metric Marathon, Stevensville, MD
• Mini-Marathon, Sat., May 5, OneAmerica 500 Festival Mini-Marathon, Indianapolis, IN
• 5K, Sun., May 6, Capital City Half Marathon, Columbus, OH
• Sprint Triathlon, Sun., June 3, Land Rover TriRock New York, New York City, NY
• Sprint Hybrid Triathlon, Sun., Jul. 15, Land Rover TriRock Seattle, Seattle, WA
• Half Marathon, Sat., Sep. 22, Women's Running Magazine Half Marathon, Nashville, TN
• Marathon, Sun, Oct. 7, Bank of America Chicago Marathon, Chicago, IL

Later in the year she will participate in two TriRock Triathlon Series sprint distance races, one in New York and the other one in Seattle.

]]> "I have to extend a huge heartfelt thank you to Giant and Forrest Ridgway at Bike World," noted Meyer. "Now I can train and compete in triathlons on my new Avail 1, which is really exciting for me," said Meyer.

In addition to support from Giant and Bike World, Champion System is providing race apparel for all Meyer's races.

But racing isn't the only challenge Meyer has faced since becoming the Season 8 $100,000 at-home winner of NBC's "The Biggest Loser". In fact, Meyer acknowledges that her "Biggest Loser" experience was just the beginning for her.

"It's been a little over two years since I left the ranch and started my life back in Des Moines, and I've learned a lot about myself and training in that time" noted Meyer. "The journey of lifelong health and fitness has no end. There is no being 'fixed.' Rather, it's allowing myself to be my own normal and embracing what that is at every step in every configuration."

Meyer has spent the better part of the last two years speaking to groups large and small about what she's learned during her transformation from an overweight, sedentary person to an ISCA certified personal trainer. When she's not speaking or participating in a race, she and her now fiancé Daniel Wright, also an alumni from Seasons 7 and 8 of "The Biggest Loser," spend their days training others through their new company, FitnessWrightNow, LLC.

USA Triathlon to Recognize Multisport Veterans with Century Club

2012-02-04T14:36:47Z

Athletes who have completed more than 100 events to be honored

USA Triathlon announced today the launch of the USA Triathlon Century Club, a program that will honor multisport athletes who have completed more than 100 triathlons over the course of their careers.

Athletes who have completed 100-plus races are asked to submit to USA Triathlon a year-by-year breakdown listing the number of events finished. All completed triathlons -- domestic and international -- are eligible for submission.

To be recognized in the initial Century Club listing, athletes must submit their event totals to centuryclub@usatriathlon.org by March 1. USA Triathlon will then honor Century Club members based on 100-race increments -- the 100 Race Club, 200 Race Club, 300 Race Club, 400 Race Club and even the 500 Race Club.

Athletes will receive commemorative items of increasing value as they progress to higher levels. Additionally, all Century Club members will be recognized on the USA Triathlon website and in USA Triathlon Magazine.

]]> "Our aim was to develop a way to recognize and reward the true veterans of our sport," USA Triathlon CEO Rob Urbach said. "I look forward to welcoming the initial members to the Century Club in March. I believe the USA Triathlon Century Club can become a motivating factor for our members to stay active and keep fueling the multisport lifestyle."

After the initial Century Club listing, USA Triathlon will add new additions to usatriathlon.org once per quarter. USA Triathlon may perform random audits of submitted lists at any time.

Additionally, USA Triathlon is seeking guesses for the number of initial members of the Century Club. The individual with the closest guess to the number of Century Club members as of March 1 will receive a USA Triathlon-branded Rudy Project helmet. Guesses can be submitted to centuryclub@usatriathlon.org.

About USA Triathlon
Founded in 1982, USA Triathlon is proud to serve as the National Governing Body for triathlon - one of the fastest growing sports in the world - as well as duathlon, aquathlon, aquabike, winter triathlon and paratriathlon in the United States. USA Triathlon sanctions 3,500 races and connects with more than 150,000 members each year, making it the largest multisport organization in the world. In addition to its work with athletes, coaches, and race directors on the grassroots level, USA Triathlon provides leadership and support to elite athletes competing at international events, including ITU World Championships, Pan American Games and the Summer Olympic Games. USA Triathlon is a proud member of the International Triathlon Union and the United States Olympic Committee.
www.usatriathlon.org

Harvey Cedars Triathlon, New Age Group Draft Legal Race

2012-02-03T14:08:10Z

Jarrod Shoemaker, the Olympian and Professional Triathlete behind the first Age Group Draft Legal Race in Florida adds another race like it in New Jersey. The Harvey Cedars Triathlon in June will feature both Professional as well as Age Group Draft Legal races. The event will also have a standard USAT non-drafting option as well a USA Triathlon Junior Talent ID Race.

"We are proud to continue our success in Clermont, Florida and add a second age group draft legal sprint race to our series! Draft legal racing is such a thrilling event to race and to watch. For the athlete it is constant effort and a totally different race experience. For the spectators they will be able to cheer their friends and family on the multi-loop course."

Triathlon: Harvey Cedars Triathlon
When: Sunday, June 3, 2012
Where: Sunset Park, Harvey Cedars, NJ
Divisions: Professional, Age Group, Juniors
Website: www.harveycedarstri.com

Age groupers looking to experience the thrill of draft legal racing should register quickly as the race field is limited to 75 select male and female spots (150 spots total).

Harvey Cedars, which is about 90+ miles East of Philadelphia, PA or 100 miles South of New York offers an outstanding course. Athletes participating in this race will:

• Experience the thrill (some for the first time) of draft legal racing.
• Be part of a big time race.
• Get to meet some of the best triathletes in the world!

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The course is set in Harvey Cedars Sunset Park off Salem Avenue. The sprint distance race will consist of a 750me swim, 20km bike, 5km run. The swim will take place in the bay, water temperatures should be in the mid 60s. The bike course will head north and will be two loops in closed lanes on LBI Boulevard. The run course will head south on LBI Boulevard before turning around and heading back to finish in Sunset Park.

Schedule	Event
07:30 am	Age Group Non-Draft Wave 1 (Mid-Atlantic Junior Talent ID Race)
07:35 am	Age Group Non-Draft Wave 2
09:15 am	Pro Women
09:40 am	Age Group Draft Legal Women
11:00 am	Pro Men
11:30 am	Age Group Draft Legal Men

USA Triathlon's Junior Talent ID Race Series provides a gateway for young athletes into the development pipeline. The Harvey Cedars Triathlon is thrilled to offer an exciting opportunity this important group of athletes! Participants will experience triathlon in its traditional, non-drafting format, officiated using USAT Competitive Rules. Regional Athlete Development Coordinators monitor results and contact participants who may be well-suited for camps or national-level events. This race is a great way to meet peers who enjoy triathlon in addition to school sports. Athletes will also be able to see the professional triathletes in action! To learn more about this Talent ID Race Series go here.

"Harvey Cedars is a place that I love; I spent summers lifeguarding and relaxing on the beautiful beaches. I learned to water ski in the bay and watched fireworks on the 4th of July at Harvey Cedars Sunset Park. I ran the Dog Day Road Race in the heat of the summer and swam the length of Harvey Cedars in the ocean."

"The sport of triathlon has filled my life with strong relationships with friends, competitors, and sponsors and I am passionate about giving back to the sport that I love. For the past couple years, I have been working to create a series of draft legal races for age groupers. Bill Burnett and I have successfully created a draft legal event in Clermont, Florida, and we look to carry on our success in Harvey Cedars, New Jersey." - Jarrod Shoemaker

For more information and registration options for the new Harvey Cedars Triathlon event visit: www.harveycedarstri.com For information on the Draft Legal Challenge at Clermont visit: www.draftlegalchallenge.com.

The events is being put on by Streamline Events, which hosts the the popular Sprint Distance Commonwealth Triathlon Series in New England and the Draft Legal Challenge in Florida.

Related Posts:
• New Bridge to Bridge Triathlon at Oak Island, NC
• 2575 Triathlon Series Kicks Off 2012 Season in March

Tri-Umph: Where Mud Run Meets Off-Road Triathlon

2012-02-02T14:05:48Z

Swim. Bike. Run. These three words have taken on new meaning as people across the country are taking up the call to be fit for life by becoming a triathlete.

There aren't many things out there that can compare to the exhilaration you feel the first time you race. But what happens once you have accomplished your first or even your tenth triathlon. After awhile the rhythm of the race starts to seem mundane and the only thing that challenges you is forgoing the towel dry so you can shave a few seconds of you transition time.

To all those people out there who think that participating in triathlons becomes boring after awhile and that most running races place too much emphasis on individual times, do not despair. Dave Ballard, CEO of Round House Racing has an alternative and it's called: Tri-Umph.

2012 Tri-Umph Adventure Triathlon Locations

When: September 1, 2012
Where: Vail Lake Resort, CA

When: September 22, 2012
Where: Portland, OR

When: October 13, 2012
Where: Reveille Peak Ranch, TX

Website: www.triumphrace.com

Tri-Umph was born out of the idea that traditional triathlons need to be shaken up. Tri-Umph is the first of its kind to combine the challenge of the off-road triathlon and the excitement of a mud run. The entire race is laced with obstacles that you might see at a mud run... except Tri-Umph has obstacles in the swimming and biking portions as well. Tri-Umph is a sprint distance (750me swim, 20km mountain bike ride, 5km run) triathlon where each leg will test and thrill you. So whether you're a triathlon pro or just a mud run freak we guarantee you've never seen anything like this before.

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Triathlon Redefined starts off with swimming where athletes quickly find obstacles like a floating balancing log or an inflatable mountain they have to climb. There are obstacles that provide a resting spot for those that need it like the lily pad leap and others where they have to swim over and under pipes.

The race then transitions to the biking portion where participants find themselves mountain biking on dirt trails through a myriad of obstacles. It then concludes with the running portion of the race. However, the mud-run style 5km offers unique and fun obstacles that haven't been seen anywhere else. When participants pass the finished line exhausted they know what it means to Tri-Umph.

Ballard tells that the idea for an off-road triathlon came to him while he was running a race that overlooked a beautiful mountain lake setting thinking how a triathlon should be held there. He knew that a lot of people avoided triathlons because of the swimming portion.

"I thought what if you could put rest areas along the way or somehow break up the monotony of the swim," said Ballard. "Then it hit me we need to have water obstacles. Obstacles will allow people to have a rest from the swim and provide a fun challenge to everyone. If people are having fun swimming or running for that matter than why wouldn't people do that race."

The format of this one-of-a-kind race is designed to get more people involved in triathlons by making the swim portion more fun. The obstacles, such as the floating lily pads, have more appeal to those who are hesitant to swim for an uninterrupted amount of time.

The minimum age to compete in the race is 16 years. The inaugural race of the Triumph series will be held September 1, 2012 in Vail Lake, California.

Please visit the event website for race details and updates. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to find out about special race giveaways, sponsors, training programs, dates and locations of the Tri-Umph races.

Journalists interested in covering Tri-Umph or participating in an event free of charge should contact Julia Fullmer at juliaf@roundhouseracing.com or by phone at (801) 472-5959.

XTERRA to Host 2012 ITU Cross Tri World Championships

2012-02-02T05:06:52Z

February 1, 2012 (Honolulu, HI) - The International Triathlon Union (ITU) has selected TEAM Unlimited / XTERRA to produce the 2012 ITU Cross Triathlon World Championships at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham, Alabama, on May 19th, 2012.

"The triathlon and multisport family is extensive and far reaching and ITU is delighted to form a partnership with XTERRA for our 2012 Cross Triathlon World Championships. We are confident the strong race organization and dynamic course will continue to push Cross Triathlon to a new level," said Marisol Casado, ITU President & IOC Member.

It is the first time the event will be held in the United States. ITU hosted the inaugural Cross Tri World Championships last year in Extremadura, Spain, where four-time XTERRA World Champion Conrad Stoltz from South Africa and three-time XTERRA World Champion Melanie McQuaid from Canada won the elite titles.

The ITU Cross Tri World Championships will be held in conjunction with the seventh-annual XTERRA Southeast Championship race with local support from Shelby County, City of Pelham, City of Hoover, Oak Mountain State Park and the Birmingham Urban Mountain Pedalers (BUMP).

]]> "Oak Mountain State Park is amazing, and I know I speak for all of us when I say we love racing there," said Stoltz, who has won the last five Southeast Championship races. "It's a true XTERRA course with a nice warm water swim in a beautiful lake, a real mountain biker's course with climbing, technical sections, and fun corners, and a tough but scenic run."

The event will feature $20,000 USD in prize money for elite athletes, who will compete over a 1.5km swim, 30km mountain bike and 10km trail run. Under-23, junior, age-group and paratriathlon races will also be contested in Pelham.

"We are excited about bringing the ITU Cross Tri World Championships to the U.S.," said XTERRA managing director Dave Nicholas, who served as the Team USA Manager at the ITU Championships in Spain last year.

"By combining the XTERRA series with ITU we are reaching new heights in cooperation between directors and the federations, and the venue at Oak Mountain and Shelby County are perfect for this event."

Oak Mountain State Park was honored as one of America's best trail destinations in the Spring 2011 edition of Runner's World Magazine, where the twisting, rolling trails made the "Crown Jewels - 25 best trail runs in America" list. BUMP, the local trails advocacy group, has spent more than 100,000 hours in design and construction of new trails over the past 20 years.

"Outdoor sports enthusiasts from around the world have discovered that Shelby County's Oak Mountain State Park provides unparalleled resources," said Alex Dudchock, Shelby County Manager.

XTERRA competitors have been praising the trails at Oak Mountain since the first XTERRA staged there in 2006. Shonny Vanlandingham (pictured), the 2010 XTERRA World Champion, said "I've raced all over the world, and I just love coming back to Oak Mountain every year. It is perhaps the best course in the nation."

The unique format for the 2012 ITU Cross Triathlon World Championships also provides a spectator friendly competition for the men's and women's pro-only races featuring multiple loops on the bike and run courses that will pass through the main athlete village and around scenic Double Oak Lake. The under-23, junior, age-group and paratriathlon race courses will be staged on more traditional single-loop short and long courses to allow for the larger fields.

QUALIFYING FOR TEAM USA
USA Triathlon's Team USA is comprised of top age-groupers who represent the United States at each ITU World Championships event. For information on the qualification criteria for Team USA for the 2012 ITU Cross Triathlon World Championships, please visit www.TeamUSATriathlon.org.

REGISTRATION
Athletes are required to register with their national federation. U.S. athletes need to qualify via the procedures described above and can find more information at www.TeamUSATriathlon.org.

OPEN TO EVERYONE
In addition to the ITU Cross Tri World Championship races XTERRA will also host open sprint and championship distance off-road triathlons for those that do not qualify. Plus, in addition to the triathlons on Saturday, XTERRA will host 5km and 10km mud runs as well as half-and-full trail marathon races that will twist and turn through the park's single track trails on Sunday, May 20.

To complement the races, Oak Mountain offers a wealth of family activities (wildlife center, swimming beach, fishing, horseback riding, golfing, boat rental, etc.) while lodging, eating and shopping opportunities abound right outside the park.

Relevant Links:
• ITU
• XTERRA
• USA Triathlon

sheJAMs Partners with Rev3 for New All-Women's Triathlon

2012-02-01T17:25:16Z

A Revolutionary All-Women's Olympic Distance Triathlon event to Kick Cancer is slated for Sunday, August 26th in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. The new REV3 sheJAMs Triathlon will take place in conjunction with the inaugural Revolution3 Maine triathlon event slated for the same day.

Triathlon: REV3 sheJAMs Triathlon
When: Sunday, August 26, 2012
Where: Old Orchard Beach, Maine
Divisions: Women Individual, Women Relay
Website: www.shejamstri.com

The REV3 sheJAMs Triathlon will be a unique race that will be limited to 300 women. Revolution3 will setup a world class venue at Old Orchard Beach and allow us, sheJAMS the opportunity to create a life changing experience for women to participate in! Women will be able to race in an Olympic Distance event consisting of a .9mi Swim, 25.51mi Bike and a 6.2mi Run while raising raising money for cancer research, education and patient support programs through the Maine Cancer Foundation!

"The idea of creating a next level for Tri for a Cure participants is a natural progression for those who want to continue with triathlon. Now women from all over New England have the chance to challenge themselves while raising money for the Maine Cancer Foundation ~ Tri for a Cure. The idea of doing an all women's race is very appealing to those who would like to compete in a less competitive atmosphere, especially if it is their first olympic distance race!" - Julie Marchese

All women participants must raise $100 for the cause!

]]> sheJAMS will be offering triathlon training for women wanting to participate. Their 16-week program starts in April. All abilities welcome to join! Visit www.shejamstri.com/shejams-training for more information.

This is another event Revolution3 Triathlon is setting up to help fight cancer. Earlier this year Revolution3 announced a new race to benefit the Ulman Cancer Fund. As well as REV3 Run Across America to Fight Cancer

About Maine Cancer Foundation
Maine Cancer Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the health and well being of Maine people by funding cancer research, education and patient support programs. 100% of the funds raised remain here in Maine. The foundation was established in 1976 by a small group of concerned citizens who had lost loved ones to cancer. Thanks to their efforts, and the support of thousands of others, Maine Cancer Foundation has made a difference in the fight against cancer, providing a millions of dollars in grant funding.
For more information about Maine Cancer please go to www.mainecancer.org

New 5150 Triathlon Series Race in the Philippines

2012-02-01T14:58:13Z

The 5150 Triathlon Series has a new race in Southeast Asia with the addition of the new 5150 Subic Bay Philippines triathlon event in June.

Triathlon: 5150 Subic Bay Philippines
When: Sunday, June 24, 2012
Where: Subic Bay, Philippines
Website: www.5150philippines.com

Triathlon, the fastest growing sport in the world is growing as fast in the Philippines. Case in point, the Cobra Energy Drink Ironman 70.3 Philippines in Cebu filled up registration seven whole months before the August 5, 2012 race day. Word has gone around the multi-sport world that the Philippines throws a great show. And with the staging of the inaugural Century Tuna 5i50 Triathlon Series on June 24, 2012 at Subic Bay, Philippine hospitality, ingenuity, and beautiful sceneries will once again be showcased. No doubt participants, visitors, families and friends will not only say "it's more fun in the Philippines" but also proclaim "it's more fun to swim, bike, run in the Philippines."

The Olympic-distance Century Tuna 5i50 race (1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run) will all be within SBMA (Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority), a former U.S. Naval base, one of the two former major military bases of the United States in the Philippines, the other being Clark Airfield, which were both reverted back to the home country by the Americans in the early Nineties. Triathletes who join can say they have swum where battleships used to be, in majestic Subic Bay surrounded by breathtaking mountains. These mountains are breathtaking too on the bike leg because this race will feature some vicious climbs. But true to most run legs in Philippine Tri-races, the 10k run route will be lined with spectators, giving that extra needed boost to complete the required 51.5 kilometers total.

]]> The title sponsor is Century Tuna, the leading tuna brand in the Philippines. Other sponsors are Alaska Milk, Summit Water, Gatorade, LBC, 2XU, Timex, Prudential Guarantee, and media partners Philippine Star and Multisport Magazine. The Century Tuna 5i50 Triahtlon Series Philippines, the first in South East Asia, is staged and organized by Sunrise Events, Inc., led by two-time Ford Ironman World Championship finisher Fred Uytengsu.

The Philippines is more than just a fantastic triathlon destination. It has a rich history, where a majority of past heritage sites centered around 300 years of Spanish rule. Contemporary lifestyles are sophisticated and cosmopolitan, where major urban centers have superb international cuisine, complete shopping experiences, and the night life is unbeatable. So after the race, and the awesome loot bag, 5i50ers should try to stay a few more days because is it is safe to say: Post-race recovery - it is more fun in the Philippines.

This is the second 5150 Triathlon Series race in the Asian market so far in 2012. In February Sri Lanka will host the first and inaugural 5150 Sri Lanka triathlon. The series now has races in North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. For more information on the 5150 Triathlon Series visit: www.5150.com

Related Posts:
• WTC Enhances 5150 Triathlon Series
• 2 Events Join 5150 Triathlon Series Schedule in 2012
• Ontario, Canada Lands WTC 5150 Muskoka Triathlon Event
• Sri Lanka to Host 2 New WTC Events in 2012

Triathletes to Discover Sri Lanka's Beauty in February

2012-01-31T17:00:10Z

In February, Sri Lanka, a tiny island nation off the southeast coast of India in South Asia, is set to host two world class triathlon events from the World Triathlon Corporation. February 19th 2012 marks an historic occasion as the Ironman brand will be breaking new ground with the first Ironman 70.3 event in South Asia, the first 5150 in Asia and Sri Lanka as a new host country for the global series. Colombo, which is situated on the western coast of the island, will be host city for the new triathlon races.

The New York Times named Sri Lanka the #1 place in the world to visit in 2010. So it's no secret; Sri Lanka is a jewel of South Asia waiting to be discovered by triathletes. Romantic island hideaways, a rich culture and a food lover's paradise, Sri Lanka has it all.

Shannon Kurek from HFP Racing in Ohio and race director states "Sri Lanka is an incredible destination location. Colombo is a very athlete-friendly host city that will bring everything conveniently together within walking distance from the host hotels for this inaugural Ironman 70.3 and 5150 race."

Steeped in Colonial Architecture, the city of Colombo will become a staging area for taking athletes back in time and delivering the romance of yesteryear. It will be a dynamic merriment of a modern day hi tech sport amidst an old era.

As the first race on the 70.3 calendar for Asia it's the perfect opportunity for athletes to awaken from the winter slumber and dip their toes into some warm waters and humid conditions to test the body.

We had a chance to ask organizers a few questions leading up to this year's inaugural events.

]]> How familiar is the sport of triathlon with the locals?
The sport of triathlon itself is no stranger to the locals while the race formats of the 5150 and 70.3 are less known. In regards to athletes and sport enthusiasts, our on-site race coordinators witnessed a sprint distance triathlon in the southern portion of the island, a 10k swim in the Indian Ocean in Colombo, and an organized race for runners in Colombo, all within the same weekend - organized by independent groups!

If not, is something being done to teach them more about it?
Other than the highly significant meetings we have had with local officials, military personnel, government liaisons, the tourist board, and interested companies (advertisement/sponsorship), we have also posted flyers in public places and have volunteer workshops in the making for education on the sport of triathlon.

Sri Lanka is not a place people in the sport think about when it comes to
triathlon. How did the idea come about, picking Colombo for a new Ironman
70.3 Series race?
Well seen in the city of Colombo, Sri Lanka now boasts one of the most rapidly growing economies in the world, matching the power and prestige of more familiar big cities. The country of Sri Lanka also has great potential as a host venue for an Ironman 70.3 event for the very fact that it IS unfamiliar to most people in the sport - it is an independent island detached from the mainland of the Asia subcontinent. Having reestablished independence as a country in the mid 1900s, Sri Lanka's history is more than one page deep. Rich culture is found here. Capable of hosting a world-class event while retaining the hidden getaway appeal of a tropical island, Sri Lanka is simply unique. It was selected for expansion into the south Asian region with the traveling, adventure-seeking athlete in mind. The climate provides a tropical challenge for race day, the clean and well maintained streets and public places provide ideal urban courses, while the scenic coastal city and unusually friendly locals provide a welcoming stay.

What's the expectation on getting local athletes to participant in the race?
One of the main takeaways thus far from witnessing sporting events in Sri Lanka and establishing relations with local sport coordinators is that most athletes who bike and run mostly stay away from the water. And those that are firstly swimmers have little to do with sports beyond the water. The expectation of local participation had a ceiling of 10% this year and, with a handful of Sri Lanka natives registered to compete, these numbers are on par. However, with momentum building for the sport of triathlon in this competitive format, we look forward to seeing more locals dive into the action in subsequent years!

So what challenges lie in wait for athletes racing in Sri Lanka?
If you have been to the island before, you will be familiar with the organized chaos of traffic. Did I say organized? Tut-tuts are the vehicle of choice and they manage to zip in and out everywhere. Entertaining to watch, hair-raising to try, this is Sri Lanka. And this is also why for one day on February 19th the city roads will be closed.

Imagine that? Complete closure to traffic for an ironman race; that's like music to a triathletes ear. With no traffic and a flat course, Sri Lanka is designed for the uber fast biker kitted with disk wheel and lovers of a pancake flat run course. But that doesn't mean it is going to be easy. Remember it's in the tropics; which means a consistent 81°F air temperature, 82°F sea temperature (no wet suits) and for a little fun, the humidity level in February hovers around 80%.

2005 World Ironman Champion, Faris Al-Sultan, is one Pro athlete who will be taking advantage of such a test. Al-Sultan will be participating in the 5150, a name creatively coined from the Olympic distances of a 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run.

"I think it is time for Sri Lanka to develop itself as a prime holiday destination and as ambassadors for triathlon, my teammates and I are proud to support a race that brings our tough but wonderful sport to this beautiful island." - Faris Al-Sultan.

To date, joining the former world champion in the 5150 is Paul Ambrose (AUS), Luke Gillmer (AUS), Freddy Lampret (RSA), Jenny Fletcher (USA) and Rachael Paxton (AUS).

A host of Aussie athletes heading to the island and one pro who loves to race in Asia is Belinda Granger. Granger will be lining up for the 70.3. Currently alongside the multi Ironman champion and 2011 Philippines 70.3 Champion is Kristin Möller and Dana Wagner of Germany, Ironman 70.3 Bussleton champion, Tim Berkel (AUS), Ironman 70.3 Canberra Champion, Tim Reed (AUS), Phuket based Swede Fredrik Croneborg, Justin Granger (AUS) and Patrick Evoe (USA).

"I am incredibly excited about racing the inaugural Sri Lanka 70.3. What an incredible place for a race. This is a great opportunity to add yet another stunning South Asian country to my long list makes me very happy. What a great way to kick start the 2012 season." - Belinda Granger.

Triathletes should be prepared to be wowed by the hotels; plenty to choose from all within walking distance or a short tut-tut ride of each other. The Taj Samudra Hotel and Galle face hotel will literally sweep you off your feet; decadence aptly describes the experience awaiting you.

Sri Lanka is a country on many peoples "must see" list. A tropical paradise it is the perfect place to holiday and experience all that south Asia has to offer. Now with the inaugural 70.3 and 5150 coming to the island, triathletes and their families can combine the best of both worlds with this new destination, must see, must do, race venue.

If it's not on your triathlon schedule this year, then make sure to think about it for next year. Visit www.ironmansrilanka.com for more information on the race.

Co-Author: Emma Bishop

Related Posts:
• Sri Lanka to Host 2 New WTC Events in 2012

Northern Ireland Decaman to Help Fight Cancer

2012-01-31T13:54:11Z

Tri Limits, a triathlon team that organizes events within Northern Ireland and the Ulster Cancer Foundation bring you Ireland's toughest triathlon - the Northern Ireland Decaman / Iron Distance Challenge. A special triathlon challenge event that will help raise money for the charity's men's health campaign. The multi-day runs from July 6th-15th, 2012 at Eskragh Lough in Dungannon, Northern Ireland.

Cancer has a major impact on the health of men in Northern Ireland. Each year almost 6,000 men are diagnosed with some form of the disease - that's a shocking 22 men every working day. Around 2,000 lose their lives to cancer each year.

Tri Limits and the Ulster Cancer Foundation are encouraging men and women to be part of the Northern Ireland Decaman which involves a 2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike followed by a 26.2 marathon, each day for 10 days! There is even an option to enter and only do an Iron Distance, which is purely 1 day of the Decaman!

There is a challenge for everyone whatever your ability so why not give it a go! Participants can choose one of the following options:

• Decaman: Enter the Overall Northern Ireland Decaman - £20 deposit, minimum sponsorship £500
• Decaman Relay Team: A relay team of 3 people in the Northern Ireland Decaman - £20 deposit per team, minimum sponsorship £500 per team
• Iron Distance Challenge: Join in, on a day of your choice - £20 deposit, minimum sponsorship £200.
• Iron Distance Challenge Relay Team: Join in, on a day of your choice, with a relay team of 3 people - £20 deposit per team, minimum sponsorship £200 per team.
• Swim / Bike / Run: Register to Swim, Bike or Run some of the Iron Distance on a day of your choice: £10 deposit, minimum sponsorship £40.

Online registration available at: www.ulstercancer.org/ps/event/NIDECAMAN1

The deposit and all sponsorship raised goes directly to the Ulster Cancer Foundation and will be used to help cancer patients and their families across Northern Ireland. It will be used to fund services including support groups, counselling, health checks and advice, education programmes, smoking cessation clinics, Male Quick Fit sessions, as well as art and creative writing therapy.

]]> The Ulster Cancer Foundation's community fundraising team will be happy to advise and assist you in your fundraising efforts.

For registration forms, further information or fundraising support please contact Paul O'Gara at the Ulster Cancer Foundation, Tel. 07585956807 or Email: paulogara@ulstercancer.org

The Ulster Cancer Foundation
The Ulster Cancer Foundation is a local charity which has been providing services in communities across Northern Ireland for more than 40 years.

Our main aim is to reduce the impact of cancer within Northern Ireland and to help us achieve this aim we are committed to funding research into the disease, providing services for cancer patients and their families and educating people on how they can reduce their risk of cancer.

The Ulster Cancer Foundation supports all sections of the community - male, female, young and old. All money raised on our behalf is spent in Northern Ireland, helping to support patients and their families.

Sponsorship & Fundraising
Your participation in the Northern Ireland Decaman/Iron distance challenge will help us reach our objectives as you reach yours! We would be very grateful if you could do your very best to raise as much sponsorship as you can.

Don't forget to encourage all your sponsors to fill in your sponsorship card in full and tick the gift aid box where appropriate. For each gift aided pound that you raise, UCF can claim back an extra 25p, as long as each donors name, address and postcode has been provided on the card. You can also request fundraising materials to help you to reach your target, such as banners, buckets, t-shirts, blank posters, balloons and leaflets. Our Fundraising team are very willing to help and assist with fundraising, contact Paul O'Gara 07585956807 or E: paulogara@ulstercancer.org.

You can now also raise funds online at www.justgiving.com. This website enables you to create your own personal web page where your sponsors can donate using their credit or debit card - so no more running around with paper sponsorship cards, or chasing cheques and cash after your event! Simply visit www.justgiving.com/ucf/raisemoney to create your own page.

If you are prepared to 'appear' in your local paper, or in your company magazine, we would be delighted as this will help encourage others to take part. A sample press release can be made available so please do not hesitate to contact me on 07585056807

Websites:
Ulster Cancer Foundation - www.ulstercancer.org
Tri Limits - trilimits.wordpress.com

GU Expands Roctane Offering with New Energy Drink

2012-01-31T03:13:51Z

Building on the success of the Roctane Gel platform, GU Energy Labs has announced the launch of Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Drink. A new carbohydrate intensive energy drink for ultra distance and intense efforts. The light tasting, carbohydrate-dense Roctane Drink provides athletes an infusion of easily available energy with the optimal rehydration combination of sodium and potassium.

The new Roctane Energy Drink features Taurine for improved heart and skeletal muscle function, White Tea caffeine for increased power output and reduced perceived effort, and the proven Roctane Amino Blend for extra energy, reduced muscle damage and enhanced mental focus. Each serving delivers 240 calories, comprised of an optimal blend of complex and simple carbohydrates.

• Ideal carbohydrate ratio - Unique ratio of complex and simple carbohydrates are podium-proven to better maintain glucose levels than simple or complex carbs alone
• Key electrolytes - Sodium and potassium properly maintain hydration
• Taurine - Can help maintain heart & muscle performance during prolonged exercise which would otherwise lead to fatigue and decreased performance
• Caffeine (except grape flavor) - Stimulates the central nervous system and reduces pain perception leading to prolonged exercise, delayed fatigue and increased performance
• Beta-Alanine - Supplements dietary beta-alanine to improve muscle buffering capacity and performance during intense efforts
• Branch Chain Amino Acids (Leucine, Valine, Isoleucine) - Shown to serve as an additional fuel source (when taken with carbohydrates), reduce muscle damage, enhance recovery and delay fatigue - all critical during intense or long efforts
• Histidine Amino Acid - helps to buffer Ph during exercise.

]]> When should I use Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Drink? Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Drink was specifically formulated for the demands of prolonged, ultra-endurance exercise. Specifically, events lasting 4+ hours. The drink is calorically dense, since consuming enough calories during these types of events can be a challenge. Caffeine is included to increase mental acuity, increase performance, and decrease perceived effort - all of which tend to go south during prolonged efforts. Taurine is included to help combat heart and skeletal muscle fatigue - as it has been shown to help increase contractility - which is especially important during long efforts where fatigue management is a big issue. The addition of beta-alanine and histidine help buffer acid caused by going over lactate threshold, and amino acids help prevent muscle damage and aid with muscle recovery.

Roctane Ultra Endurance Energy Drink will be available in Lemon Lime, Grape and Tropical Fruit flavors. The product will retail for MSRP $2.90 per single-serving packet, $30 per 12-serving canister, and $45 per 24-serving canister. The new Roctane Drink mix will be available for purchase at specialty sports retailers and on their website.

*** Special Introductory Promo ***
Avaialble online via the www.guenergy.com
Get a FREE 8-pack of Roctane Ultra Gel* with the purchase of any Roctane Ultra Energy Drink.
*Add any flavor 8-pack of Roctane Gel along with any Roctane Drink to your Cart and receive a $20 credit at checkout. Limit one per purchase.

For more information visit www.roctane.com or www.guenergy.com

Check Out Leon's Triathlon Team Challenge Concept

2012-01-30T14:08:54Z

Are you up for a challenge? Here is something new, exciting and something to consider when choosing a triathlon event for your schedule.

For the most part, triathlon is an individual sport where you swim, bike and run the entire event yourself. To entice new athletes, introduce them to the sport or even make it more of a social thing some organizers have a relay team division at their event. This is great for those who might not be comfortable in one of the particular disciplines but want to participate with their friends, family or tri club in one form or another.

The concept of Team Racing is not that common here in the U.S. unlike in other countries where Triathlon Club / Team competition is more prevalent. Yes, a few events here have Triathlon Club competitions, but it's not that big or anything like what Leon's has in store. Now that triathlon has made it to the collegiate level, we are seeing Team competition when it comes to these athletes. They race individually yet for their team, just like one would do if they were a high school or collegiate swimmer.

There is a triathlon event that is out to change this. The man behind it is Leon Wolek from Leon's World's Fastest Triathlon in Hammond, IN. His goal is to make that individual effort even more valuable and enjoyable as part of a team.

It's not about getting the best swimmer, biker and runner to for a team, that would be called a relay team. Team Challenge here is a bit different. A team here is a group of triathletes that go to a race together and do the entire race individually. At the end of the race, they take a subset of the individual times and use that to score the team against the other teams racing. That way everyone has to chance to participate in the whole event while trying to help the team win the competition. A great opportunity to share in the post race award festivities even if one faces stiff competition in their age group.

]]> Camaraderie, fun, inspiring, rivalries, sharing in the highs and lows is what Wolek see's when people race as part of a team. These aren't your ordinary teams explained Wolek. "Imagine the NASCAR pit areas, where you have all the team members, the team tents in their team colors. Now imagine an area like that in a triathlon transition area, except no car, only triathlon bikes, maybe a mechanic and/or coach while everyone in team colors."

"Each team gets their own area with a custom made wooden bike rack to decorate as they please. They will also be able to put up and decorate a team tent adjacent to the transition area as part of the Team Challenge."

Introduced last year at Leon's Triathlon, Wolek hopes to inspire and attract more teams this year. To do so he has been talking to triathlon shops and coaches recruiting teams for this year's race in June.

"Each team has to choose a captain, just like any sports team has to do," Wolek says.

Wolek's Leon's World's Fastest Triathlon is rich in history. Now in its third year after a 15 year hiatus Wolek wants to add to the history with this concept and have this race remembered for something new.

Team Challenge Info

• Teams must consist of 5-10 registered members, male, female or co-ed, including the captain.
• Teams with more than 10 members may create additional teams.
• The top 5 times of the male and female teams will be used to determine the winners.
• Co-ed teams must have at least 2 male and 2 female members. The top 2 male and top 2 female times along with the next best time (male or female) will be used to calculate the co-ed team time.
• The top teams will win awards, TBD.
• Check the website to see a list of all the teams already committed to race.

Triathlon: Leon's World's Fastest Triathlon
When: Sunday, June 3, 2012 @ 8:00 AM
Where: Wolfe Lake Park, Hammond, IN
Distance: Olympic (Swim: 1.5km/.9mi Bike: 40km/24.8mi Run: 10km/6.2mi)
Website: www.leonstriathlon.com

So again, are you up for a challenge? How about racing with your friends in a team competition? Teams are created thru dealers and clubs. Check the event website for details...

On Saturday, Leon's Triathlon will host a Triathlon Demo Day in conjunction with race packet pick-up. The interactive race expo is designed to allow athletes, friends and all those attending the opportunity to test drive and learn about the latest and greatest equipment from the leading companies in triathlon and sponsors like Zoot and Versa Climber.

Wolfe, Dussault Claim Winter Triathlon National Titles

2012-01-30T04:42:59Z

Mike Wolfe and Rebecca Dussault took advantage of near-perfect conditions Sunday to claim national titles at USA Triathlon's 2012 Winter Triathlon National Championship at Homestake Lodge.

Wolfe from Helena, MT covered the 5-kilometer run, 10-kilometer mountain bike and 5-kilometer cross-country ski course in 1 hour, 10 minutes, 20 seconds to outdistance the field by more than three minutes.

Joining Wolfe on the men's podium were fellow Montana athletes Matt Seeley and Landon Beckner, who finished in 1:13:31 and 1:13:34, respectively.

On the women's side, Dussault of Gunnison, CO claimed her third USA Triathlon Winter Triathlon National Championship title in the last four years in 1:16:10. The 2010 winter triathlon world champion also finished fifth overall -- regardless of gender -- to earn the women's title by more than five minutes.

Last year's women's national champion Emma Garrard was second in 1:21:22, while Nicole Freedman grabbed third in 1:25:13.

Wolfe and Dussault got off to strong starts by posting the day's fastest run splits en route to their victories.

]]> 2012 USA Triathlon Winter Triathlon National Championship Results:
January 29, 2012 - Butte, Montana, USA

Top 10 Men Results	Time	Place	Top 10 Women Results	Time
Mike Wolfe (MT)	1:10:20	1	Rebecca Dussault (CO)	1:16:10
Matt Seeley (MT)	1:13:31	2	Emma Garrard (UT)	1:21:22
Landon Beckner (MT)	1:13:34	3	Nicole Freedman (MA)	1:25:13
Ryan Scott (MT)	1:15:13	4	Julie Zickovich (MT)	1:31:38
Cory Soulliard (MT)	1:16:45	5	Darcy Foley (MA)	1:32:47
Chuck Dumke (MT)	1:18:15	6	Ingrid Lovitt (MT)	1:41:14
Michael Stearns (MT)	1:18:40	7	Kathryn Babbin (MT)	1:45:08
David Hoffman (MT)	1:21:16	8	Kaylee Uibel (MT)	1:47:42
Wesley Furlong (MT)	1:25:48	9	Rebecca Duffy (IL)	1:56:13
Ted Wood (MT)	1:26:17	10	Becky Hochstein (MT)	2:00:27

The top three overall finishers earned the right to represent the U.S. in the elite race at the 2012 ITU Winter Triathlon World Championships in Jämijärvi, Finland, on March 24-25. Additionally, the top three competitors in each age group qualified for Team USA for Winter Worlds.

Click here for complete results (PDF)

Held in conjunction with the fourth annual Powder Hound Winter Triathlon, Sunday's Winter Nationals event was contested under bright sunshine with temperatures in the mid 40s.

The USA Triathlon Winter Triathlon National Championship was originally slated for the Gunstock Winter Triathlon on Jan. 22 in Gilford, N.H., but USA Triathlon was forced to relocate Winter Nationals in late December 2011 due to a lack of snow on the East Coast.

Source: USA Triathlon

Related Posts:
• Snow Forces Change in Winter Triathlon National Championship

Qualifying for 2012 Kona at an Ironman 70.3 Race

2012-01-26T21:44:42Z

Unlike the professionals who now have the Kona Pro Ranking system for their opportunity to qualify for racing in the Ironman World Championship race. Age groupers get their chance via qualifying slots offered mainly at Ironman events around the world. What some age groupers don't know is that some Ironman 70.3 triathlon races offer qualifying slots for Kona. Usually the number of slots at these events is smaller than on would see being offered at a regular Ironman event.

Just because the event is half the distance doesn't mean is easier to get a slot to the big dance. By far the competition for these slots is fierce and advantageous. Half the distance, half the recovery time, double the challenge.

So far for the 2012 Ironman World Championship race, the WTC has 6 Ironman 70.3 events offering slots to Kona:

• Ironman 70.3 Phuket (December 4, 2011) - 30
• Ironman 70.3 St. Croix (May 6, 2012) - 30
• Ironman 70.3 Hawaii (June 2, 2012) - 28
• Ironman 70.3 Eagleman (June 10, 2012) - 30
• Ironman 70.3 Buffalo Springs Lake (June 24, 2012) - 30
• Ironman 70.3 Japan (June 24, 2012) - 30

The Ironman 70.3 Philippines race had slots last year. Those have since been removed. It seems that they might have be re-allocated with the announcement that Ironman 70.3 Japan will now have slots for Kona.

]]> Read more info at www.ironmanworldchampionship.com/qualification/

Ironman 70.3 Centrair Tokoname Japan Offers Kona Slots
World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) today announced that general entry registration for the third annual Ironman 70.3 Centrair Tokoname Japan will open on Jan. 31, 2012. With this being the only Ironman World Championship qualifier in the region, race organizers have added additional entries; however, as in previous years, a sell-out is anticipated within just a few hours.

Scheduled for June 24, 2012, Lixil Ironman 70.3 Centrair Tokoname Japan will be staged in and around the Centrair International Airport, providing easy access to the race for visitors travelling from across the globe with direct flights from Singapore, Frankfurt and Detroit. Athletes will begin the race with a point-to-point swim at Ise Bay in the Pacific Ocean. The 1.5-loop bike course will see some changes in 2012, leading to a smoother and faster route through Tokoname city. The final leg of the course features a spectator friendly one-loop run with athletes finishing on the beach.

The event is one of nearly 60 in the global Ironman 70.3 Series, offering 25 age group qualifying slots for the 2012 Ironman World Championship 70.3, to be held on Sept. 9, 2012, at Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, Nev. The event date was moved earlier in the season to accommodate the addition of 30 coveted age group qualifying slots to the 2012 Ironman World Championship, scheduled for Oct. 13, 2012, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. These slots will give Asia-Pacific athletes additional opportunities to make it to the starting line on Ali'i Drive in Kona. Professional athletes will be competing for a prize purse of $15,000.

For additional information on Lixil Ironman 70.3 Centrair Tokoname or to register for the 2012 race, please visit www.ironman703.jp/e/ (English) or www.ironman703.jp (Japanese).

AVIA Named Presenting Sponsor of XTERRA

2012-01-25T16:49:14Z

January 25, 2012 (Honolulu, HI) - AVIA, the leading footwear brand in endurance sports, will join forces with XTERRA - the nation's premier off-road triathlon and trail running series - as a Presenting Sponsor in 2012.

The partnership puts AVIA in prime position to connect with XTERRA's active, national audience of adventure seekers, weekend warriors and competitors via the XTERRA America Tour of more than 100 off-road triathlons and trail runs held across the U.S., and at least ten nationally syndicated television programs including the XTERRA USA Championship, XTERRA World Championship, and XTERRA Adventure series.

"Through these last few years we have observed AVIA's commitment to endurance and participation sports, and we are honored that they have chosen XTERRA to become their partner," said Tom Kiely, CEO of TEAM Unlimited/XTERRA. "Our combined efforts will produce more opportunities for training, competition, and fun for the active lifestyle market in the future."

AVIA, a global brand rooted in multisport since 1979, has a proud history of creating great footwear for the runner, triathlete, weekend warrior, and endurance enthusiast.

"The XTERRA partnership extends our aggressive commitment to aligning AVIA with today's concept of the Outdoor Gym. As we evolve our brand and innovate technologies for today's fitness minded consumer, XTERRA participants provide a meaningful extension of the AVIA platform," said Tim Joyce, Senior Vice President & General Manager-American Sporting Goods.

]]> Armed with this presenting sponsorship AVIA will be able to showcase their footwear to thousands of XTERRA participants across the nation, and will also expose their brand to national television audiences and online via XTERRA's web portals XTERRAPlanet.com, XTERRATrailrun.com, and XTERRA.TV.

"AVIA is the perfect footwear and apparel sponsor for the XTERRA Tribe. AVIA's commitment to providing compelling and innovative product to consumers, and the XTERRA Series - which provides what we see as the Outdoor Gym - align perfectly. You just couldn't find a better fit," said David Howitt, CEO of the Meriwether Group who assisted in forging the partnership between XTERRA and AVIA.

About AVIA
In 1979, AVIA was founded on a passion to provide footwear for serious athletes. As technology advanced, so did AVIA, developing innovative shoe designs that revolutionized athletic footwear. With such designs as the Cantilever Heel, the Anatomical Cradle, and FOM Technology, AVIA proved to be passionate, progressive, and at the top of the game. Today, AVIA continues to lead the performance training movement and further its dedication to endurance sports performance.

About TEAM Unlimited / XTERRA
TEAM Unlimited is a Hawaii-based television events and marketing company, founded in 1988. It owns and produces XTERRA and in 2011 produced more than 100 XTERRA off-road triathlon and trail running races in 15 countries worldwide. In the U.S. alone nearly 200,000 participants took part in the XTERRA lifestyle last year while XTERRA's TV, publicity, advertising, online, and grassroots marketing efforts generated more than 400 million impressions. In addition, TEAM TV has produced more than 300 adventure television shows resulting in three Emmy's and 42 Telly Awards for production excellence since 1990. View samples at www.xterra.tv, and learn more at www.xterraplanet.com and www.xterratrailrun.com.

WTC Enhances 5150 Triathlon Series

2012-01-24T18:43:56Z

World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) today announced changes and additions to the 5150 Triathlon Series. Professional WTC champions will have the opportunity for expanded automatic qualifying across three world-renowned championship events: the Hy-Vee 5150 U.S. Championship, Ironman World Championship 70.3 and Ironman World Championship. Professional athletes will also have expanded opportunities for 5150 Pro Ranking (5150 PR) points with the addition of 5150 Triathlon Series races and select Ironman 70.3 races to the qualifying schedule.

This is a milestone for our sport," said Andrew Messick, Chief Executive Officer of WTC. "Automatic qualifying for our champions across the three championship events will add an interesting and competitive dynamic. With this change and the additional opportunities to earn points in the 5150 PR system, we're giving professional athletes a chance to add variety to their season and compete across different distances without compromising their qualifying opportunities. We're excited to see how this unites athletes within the triathlon community."

The 2011 Hy-Vee 5150 U.S. Championship, Marine Corps Ironman World Championship 70.3 and Ford Ironman World Championship professional winners will each receive an automatic invitation to all three events in 2012, provided they validate their slots. With expanded automatic qualification, world champions like Craig Alexander and Melissa Rollison will not only be invited back to the race that they conquered the previous year, but also have the opportunity to race in the 2012 Hy-Vee 5150 U.S. Championship. Likewise, Greg Bennett and Lisa Norden will now be extended an invitation to compete in Kona and Las Vegas, provided they validate their slots during the 2012 qualifying period.

]]> "It's encouraging to see WTC introduce this initiative with the 5150, Ironman 70.3 and Ironman champions getting the chance to race each other at these championship events," said Greg Bennett, 2011 Hy-Vee 5150 U.S. Championship Men's Elite Cup champion. "Over time we will see some great battles between athletes who excel in their particular arena and are getting challenged by a different distance. Bringing the best in the sport together to race each other will be brilliant for triathlon, and I'm excited to have the opportunity to race at all three championship events in 2012."

"I'm excited to hear of the new qualifying system," said Mirinda Carfrae, second-place finisher at the 2011 Ford Ironman World Championship and Hy-Vee 5150 U.S. Championship. "It's an opportunity and great step by WTC to encourage the best athletes to compete at the biggest races across all distances."

The announcement of the automatic qualifying system comes at a significant point in triathlon history - prize purses are at an all-time high. Not only is the 2012 Hy-Vee 5150 U.S. Championship professional prize purse more than $1.1 million, but WTC has now increased the professional prize purse for the Ironman World Championship 70.3 and Ironman World Championship. The total 2012 Ironman World Championship 70.3 prize purse is doubling to $200,000 and the total 2012 Ironman World Championship prize purse is increasing to $650,000.

This season, the 5150 Triathlon Series will offer several new races and WTC has designated a number of Ironman 70.3 races around the world that will count toward the 5150 PR system as well. Professional athletes will have up to five of their highest scored races count toward their 5150 PR; at least one of those races must be a 5150 Triathlon Series event and up to two of the designated Ironman 70.3 races may count toward the total. A full list including the qualifying schedule and points can be found on the Ironman Pro Membership website at www.ironmanpromembership.com/hy-vee-5150-qualifying/.

For a complete list of the 2012 5150 Triathlon Series events or for additional information about the expanded automatic qualifying and 5150 PR, please visit www.5150.com. Professional athlete inquiries should be directed to Proinfo@5150.com.

Related Posts:
• 2 Events Join 5150 Triathlon Series Schedule in 2012
• Ontario, Canada Lands WTC 5150 Muskoka Triathlon Event
• Organizers Merge Ironman 70.3 & 5150 New Orleans Events

Star Events Opens North American Office, Names General Manager

2012-01-24T14:15:56Z

Star Events owned by Star Production SARL and Star Events USA announce their selection of Lindsey Kurhajetz to fulfill the new position of General Manager for the North American development, branding and operations of the TriStar Series and GranFondo USA cycling events. Under the direction of Star Events Board Member Brett Craig and Chief Operating Officer Olivier Castelli, Kurhajetz's work begins immediately to launch the high quality sporting events in popular North American destinations.

"Our expansion into the U.S. marks a significant milestone for Star Events. This development allows us to bring new ideas, formats and experiences to the vibrant U.S. market. Now with Lindsey at the helm and an emerging team, I'm excited for the year to unfold," said Star Events Chairmen and CEO Georg Hochegger.

"After a search that included many qualified candidates, we are very fortunate to bring Lindsey into the General Manager role. The combination of her leadership, dedication and energy was for us, a paramount decision," confirms Brett Craig, Star Events Board Member.

]]> An English and Communication honors graduate of St. Olaf College, Kurhajetz's resume highlights a rich career of leadership and event management. Media Coordinator for the UCI Road World Championship in Melbourne, Australia, Team Liaison and Development Lead for Minnesota's signature PRO race, the Nature Valley Grand Prix, founder of the award-winning Maple Grove Triathlon and inaugural TriStar111 Minnesota events, Kurhajetz has also worked with Denver's Tri for the Cure and Tour of California. {Lindsey with 2011 TriStar111 Minnesota winner Maik Twelsiek}

Last July, she shared the cover of Triathlete Magazine with South African PRO, Dan Hugo. "I'm eager for the American market to enjoy the Star Events experience and learn more about the unique formats both competitive and recreational. Together with our event partners, avid triathletes and cyclists will have premier access to authentic European-style racing in popular U.S. destinations," said Kurhajetz.

The Star Events USA office will be based in St Petersburg, Florida.

About Star Events
The TriStar and GranFondo World labels are owned by Star Production SARL, a Monaco based company specializing in organizing high quality sports events that are focused on fun, social responsibility and environmental protection. The TriStar Series has grown to 30 races in these 15 destinations in less than three years: Split (Croatia), Nevis (St.Kitts and Nevis), Mallorca and Madrid (Spain), Worms-Germany (Germany), Lyon, Deauville and Cannes (France), Estonia-Otepää (Estonia), Minnesota (USA), Monaco (Monaco), Sardinia (Italy), Milton Keynes (GBR) and Salzkammergut and Kufstein (Austria). TriStar has introduced new distances to the sport of triathlon (A/N: 111km and 222km), officially recognized by ITU, as well as a new Team Racing Concept T5. GranFondo World presents authentic Italian-inspired pure cycling events in San Diego, LA - Beverly Hills, Philadelphia and Miami with additional locations on the immediate horizon.
More Info: www.star-events.cc

Vanhoenacker, Swallow Dominate Ironman 70.3 South Africa

2012-01-22T17:50:30Z

Marino Vanhoenacker of Belgium and Jodie Swallow of Great Britain kicked off their 2012 season with win, taking today's 2012 titles at Ironman 70.3 South Africa Sunday in East London, South Africa.

The pair led similar race stories with both dominating the field virtually from start to finish. Vanhoenacker had to make up some ground after the swim but once ahead, never looked back while Swallow exited the water first and blazed a trail to the finish line, never offering up a sign of weakness.

Once the formalities were concluded, the piercing sound of the starter's gun sounded at 07h00 for the PRO male athletes. Edo van der Meer (NED) emerged on the beach in a time of 00:26:29 with the same look of determination he had entering the surf. Van der Meer was closely followed by Balazs Csoke (HUN) one second later, and Mark Threlfall (GBR) and Kent Horner (RSA) contesting for third, two seconds behind the leader. In fifth place upon exiting the water was pre-race favourite, Marino Vanhoenacker (BEL).

The early swim leaders were pegged back during the bike leg as Van Der Meer and Threlfall gradually fell back while Vanhoenacker, Ronnie Schildknecht (SUI) and Domenico Passuello moved to the front of the pack. The mercury reached around 30 degrees in overcast and humid conditions which the athletes handled well. Vanhoenacker dug deep to come from behind and not only take the lead but managed to open a 6 minute gap between himself and his closest rival heading into transition, with a bike split of 02:18:00. Vanhoenacker was followed by the Italian Passuello, with a time of 2:20:22 who trailed by 4:39 when exiting the swim. Schildknecht made up third with bike split of 2:23:14.

The run leg never seemed to be a problem for race leader, Vanhoenacker, as he maintained his lead on the course to be the first to beak the tape and emerge as the winner of the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa in a time of 4:06:25. Schildknecht claimed second place on the day with a time of 4:12:56 and Domenico Passuello brought up the top three time of 4:18:37. Once the three leaders exited transition, there was little doubt as to the outcome as positions remained largely unchanged. Kent Horner was the first South African male home in fifth place.

]]> 2012 Ironman 70.3 South Africa Results:
January 22, 2012 - East London, South Africa

Pro Men Results	Time	Place	Pro Women Results	Time
Marino Vanhoenacker	4:06:25	1	Jodie Swallow	4:39:01
Ronnie Schildknecht	4:12:56	2	Lucie Zelenkova	4:43:56
Domenico Passuello	4:18:37	3	Tine Deckers	4:46:13
Mark Threlfall	4:19:46	4	Claire Horner	4:51:39
Kent Horner	4:21:34	5	Susie Hignett	5:02:02

The ladies' field unfolded in similar fashion to the men's with defending champion, Jodie Swallow dominating from start to finish. Swallow (GBR) illustrated her dominance, completing her swim in a time of 26:56 followed by Lucie Zelenkova (CZE) 28:42 and South Africa's and Andrea Steyn 00:31:17. Steyn was closely followed by compatriot Riana de Lange (RSA) four seconds later. Local women's favourite, Claire Horner (RSA) managed a fifth place out of the water in a time of 32:14.

The leading lady, Jodie Swallow maintained pole position after the bike leg with a time of 2:36:41 amassing a five minute lead over Zelenkova who came into transition with a bike split of 2:40:22. Last year's runner up, Tine Deckers (BEL) made her move on the bike leg to close the one minute gap between her and Zelenkova after the swim, to be the third lady into transition with a time of 2:39:39.

Once on the run, the result seemed a mere formality as the unchallenged Swallow came through for a commanding victory in a time of 04:39:01 successfully protecting her crown as the ladies' the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa champion. Second position also remained unchanged as Zelenkova achieved a podium position coming in second in a time of 04:43:56. Deckers, despite struggling with back pain before the race, maintained her third position throughout the run to complete the ladies' top three in a time of 4:46:13. Claire Horner was the first South African ladies' finisher in a impressive fourth place amongst a talented field.

The fifth edition of the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa lived up to its pre-race billing as athletes and spectators revelled in the day's atmosphere and those present witnessed the crowing of a new champion and an impressive title defence.

Additional Coverage:
- 2012 Ironman 70.3 South Africa Athlete Tracker [via Ironman.com]

Check out our 2012 Ironman 70.3 Triathlon Results Grid where at a glance you can see the top three professional triathletes that made the podium at each of the Ironman 70.3 Series races around the world.
www.trijuice.com/2012-ironman-703-results.htm

Related Posts:
• Triumph & Tragedy as Manocchio & Stampfli Win Pucon 70.3
• Reed, Marangon Win Inaugural Ironman 70.3 Canberra
• Raelert, Rollison Win Ironman 70.3 Asia-Pacific Championship
• Kienle, Cave Win 2011 Ironman 70.3 Miami

HITS Triathlon Series Continues 2012 Tour in Corpus Christi

2012-01-21T16:11:36Z

Triathlon legend Dave Scott scheduled to attend HITS Triathlon Corpus Christi Event

Corpus Christi, TX (January 20, 2012) - After introducing a national, year-long series in Palm Springs, CA and kicking off 2012 in Naples, FL, HITS Triathlon Series will bring two days of swimming, biking and running across five distances to Southeast Texas with an event in Corpus Christi February 18-19. As an added bonus to HITS triathletes, six-time Ironman World Champion Dave Scott will be present to deliver a guest address at Friday evening's Athlete Welcome Dinner and will remain on-site for the duration of the event.

Scott joined the HITS team in July of 2011 as a key advisor and spokesperson for the series and will join triathletes from all corners of the world at HITS Triathlon Series events in Corpus Christi, Fort Collins, CO (July 28-29), Cooperstown, NY (September 22-23) and the HITS Championship in Palm Springs, CA (December 1-2) - all presented by HighTower - during the 2012 season. Beginning in Texas, Scott will provide custom training tips, Q&A sessions, as well as one-on-one autograph sessions for race participants throughout the weekend.

"The Corpus Christi event will be a golden opportunity for me to work alongside the HITS team and, most importantly, to interact with all the athletes," said Scott. "I'll be on site throughout the weekend races as a resource for the competitors, and I'm looking forward to a great weekend."

The first of two HITS Triathlon Series events scheduled for Texas this year, Corpus Christi will boast a swim in the Naval Marina with amphitheater seating - ideal for spectators trying to catch a glimpse of their athletes in the water. Meanwhile, the bike and run courses will weave along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, offering breathtaking views of both land and sea. From Shoreline Boulevard and Ocean Drive, the bike course will proceed onto the Causeway to Padre Island before turning around inside the National Seashore Park to return to the start. Members of the Corpus Christi Police Department will manage traffic flow along the route.

]]> "As far as triathlon venues go - Corpus Christi is the best kept secret in the United States," said race director Mark H. Wilson. "The coastline is as beautiful at night as it is during the day and all three legs of the course will combine to make one awesome race."
HITS Triathlon Series - Corpus Christi will feature a HITS Fitness Festival, which will serve as the gathering place for participants and spectators to interact with local and national sponsors, fitness products, services, as well as event partners. Those interested in participating in the Fitness Festival can visit www.hitstriathlonseries.com/sponsorship, or contact Star Exiner-Walters at Star@HitsTriathlonSeries.com or 845.246.8833.

Registration is open for HITS Triathlon Series - Corpus Christi at www.hitstriathlonseries.com. Early registration closes Saturday, February 11 at 11:59 pm Central Time and online registration is available until Tuesday, February 14 at 11:59 pm Central Time. Course maps and other important race details are also available online.

About HITS, Inc.
HITS, Inc. is a special events management company primarily focused on producing endurance sports events and hunter/jumper horse shows. Based in upstate New York in the village of Saugerties, HITS is dedicated to creating high-quality events in desirable destinations with unmatched, professional operations. For more information about the HITS Triathlon Series, please visit www.hitstriathlonseries.com.

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Farlow, Crawford Win Sixth Challenge Wanaka

2012-01-21T04:41:25Z

Australia's Aaron Farlow came through a strong field to win the sixth edition of the long-course Challenge Wanaka triathlon on Saturday.

Farlow broke the tape in 8:41:53 (50:43 / 4:44:51 / 3:02:41), 10 minutes ahead of defending champion Jamie Whyte of Auckland with Aucklander Kieran Doe another six minutes behind in third.

Farlow, a rising Canberra-based professional, took his first Ironman win last year in the UK and showed his class with a steady performance that brought him from three minutes behind in the swim to an emphatic win. He was clearly spent at the finish.

While disappointed he couldn't defend his title, Whyte said he was pleased with a day that saw him racing solo much of the race and unable to pick up the pace on the run as he'd hoped.

"I was trying to extract more pace from myself; I just couldn't get any more running speed. I knew I was losing time but I just wasn't able to get anything going on the run," he said. "I was cleanly beaten today by the better athlete."

Whyte vowed to return next year, and took time at the finish to thank the crowd that thronged Wanaka's lakeside Ardmore St. "Thanks to the people of Wanaka for making me feel like I'm on my home ground," he said.

2012 Challenge Wanaka Results:
January 21, 2012 - Wanaka, New Zealand

Pro Men Results	Time	Place	Pro Women Results	Time
Aaron Farlow (AUS)	08:41:53	1	Gina Crawford (NZL)	09:44:06
Jamie Whyte (NZL)	08:51:53	2	Britta Martin (GER)	09:47:39
Kieran Doe (NZL)	08:57:17	3	Simone Maier (GER)	09:57:42
Courtney Ogden (AUS)	09:08:42	4	Candice Hammond (NZL)	09:58:39
Jimmy Johnsen (DEN)	09:09:05	5	Julia Grant (NZL)	10:01:49

]]> First out of the water were quick swimmers Doe and veteran professional Bryan Rhodes, who covered the 3.8km in Lake Wanaka in just under 48min, putting both under the swim course record of 49.97. Nearly 3min in arrears came Farlow, trailed by Whyte, Courtney Ogden (AUS), Jimmy Johnsen (DEN), Keegan Williams (NZL) and Petr Vaboursek (Czech Republic).

Once onto the bike Doe and Rhodes drove the pace in the early going with Farlow, Whyte, Ogden and Johnsen rounding out the front-runners. Farlow bridged the gap to the pair, joining Doe at the 70km mark as Rhodes had dropped back with mechanical woes. Bedeviled by two flat tyres, Rhodes saw his race end about 150km into the cycle. Farlow then made what turned out to be the decisive move with 30km left to ride, overhauling Doe and coming into the second transition area with more than two minutes in hand as the gaps widened behind them. Farlow ticked off the first 21km of the marathon in 1:28:27 and had 6min on Whyte, with Doe another three minutes in arrears. Behind them Ogden and Johnsen were firing and would come through to the finish in fourth and fifth.

CRAWFORD BACK IN THE WINNER'S CIRCLE
The women's race was dominated wire to wire by three-time Challenge Wanaka champion Gina Crawford of Christchurch, newly returned to full-time racing after giving birth to her first child six months ago. The 30-year-old Crawford exited the water in 54:21 and was never headed, reaching the finish in 9:44:06 after holding off a hard-charging Britta Martin on the run to take her fourth Wanaka title.

"It's just great to push yourself to the line and see how far you can go," Crawford said. "It's great to be back, I've missed racing."

After a strong bike, Crawford arrived in the transition area well clear of fellow Kiwi Julia Grant and Germany's Britta Martin, a rising triathlon pro now based in Nelson. Crawford stormed onto the run course and burnt through the first 3km in 11 minutes on the way to a determined and speedy marathon. Behind her, Martin (winner of last year's Challenge Wanaka half-distance race) was having a strong run and gaining ground but could overhaul her. At the finish Crawford had two and a half minutes on Martin and another 10 minutes on third place.

The sixth-year race saw 1,300 athletes from 30 nations competing in the half-distance and full-distance triathlons. The race covers a 3.8km swim in Lake Wanaka, a 180km bike ride past the lake and through spectacular Southern Lakes and Central Otago scenery before wrapping up with a two-lap 42.2km marathon run along the Clutha River and lake's edge. For more information, please visit www.challenge-wanaka.com.

Link: 2012 Challenge Wanaka Triathlon Results

Source: Challenge
Photos: Hannah Johnston / Getty Images

Michigan Set to Host New Mi Titanium Triathlon Event

2012-01-20T13:47:25Z

Organizers of the Grand Rapids Triathlon saw an opportunity based on the success of their event to offer triathlete in Michigan and from across the US a chance to go long. Thus the new Mi Titanium triathlon event was born, a event that will feature full Iron Distance triathlon race as well as a 3/4 Iron Tri. The event will be held at Versluis Park in Plainfield Township in Grand Rapids, MI on August 26, 2012.

Triathlon: Mi Titanium Triathlon
When: August 26, 2012
Where: Versluis Park, Grand Rapids, MI
Events: Iron, 3/4 Iron, AquaBike
Website: www.mititanium.com

UPDATE:
Organizers have changed the 3/4 Iron Tri to a Half Iron Race. Also, the HITS Triathlon Series race in Traverse City was canceled.

The independent iron distance event will feature the 140.6 mile distance which consists of a 2.4mi Swim, 112mi Bike and a 26.2mi Run. They are also offering triathletes an opportunity to do 3/4 of the miles with their 3/4 Tri, a 1.2mi Swim, 85mi Bike and a 18.8mi Run. Also available will be a Full and 3/4 AquaBike events. A relay option will be available for those wanting to tackle the iron distance event.

Proceeds from the event will fund the YMCA Strong Kids Campaign. The YMCA Strong Kids is a fundraising campaign focused on giving community members the chance to live a healthy, productive life.

]]> The main venue for the Mi Titanium is Versluis Park. A 1.2mi swim loop will be setup in Versluis Lake, a very clean and clear lake that does not allow the use of gas powered motors. The iron distance full will be a double loop swim while the 3/4 Tri will do just one. Athletes will then leave the park and do a double lollipop loop for the iron distance race, heading towards Belding on a scenic countryside course. Iron distance athletes will do 112 miles while the 3/4 Tri athletes will do 85 miles on the bike course. Athletes return to T2 in Versluis Park and then head south for a double loop run that will feature a rolling terrain for athletes to conquer. The 3/4 Tri will be 18.8 miles while the Full will be 26.2 miles.

Organizers will be offering a variety of Free and Fee basic clinics for athletes in the area. Check the event website for details.

Registration is currently open for the USAT Sanctioned 2012 Mi Titanium Triathlon event in August:

• Full: $345 / Relay $445
• 3/4 Iron: $185
• Full AquaBike: $245
• 3/4 AquaBike: $145

Visit the event website for details or register here.

This is the second new Iron Distance triathlon in the state of Michigan in 2012 and only one of four in the Midwest. Last year it was announced that Michigan would also be host to an Iron Distance triathlon in Traverse City via the HITS Triathlon Series.

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