Haikou, 19 February, 2008 – Momentum is gathering as athletes from across the world are committing to tough it out at endurance sport’s latest addition to the international race calendar: Ironman China.
Both amateurs and professional athletes are eligible to enter the event, which is attracting some of the world’s top triathletes. On race day, 20 April 2008, participants in Ironman China will swim 3.9km in the South China Sea, cycle 180km through coastal and rural China, and run 42km through the parks and bridges of Hainan. The same date is also host to the CLSA Ironman China 70.3, the official half distance Ironman event.
Alex Bok, manager of teamTBB, which took the triathlon world by storm in 2007, has confidence in the timely arrival of Ironman China. “The triathlon lifestyle is growing very steadily with about 25% year on year growth in the numbers of race participants around the world. Asia is picking up rapidly with even faster growth numbers, and is currently going through the kind of sporting boom Europe and North America saw in the 80s and 90s,” said Bok. “With the live coverage of races on the web getting around 500,000 visitors a month, it’s clear that the media and sponsors are becoming increasingly excited about this sport. Ironman China is a wonderful addition to the race calendar in Asia and has become a reality after many years of hard work by people such as Murphy Reinschreiber.”
Bok called out to those who are still sitting on the fence about participating in the race, “You have only one chance to say, “I attended the very first Ironman China.” I’m very excited about this race, and the participation of teamTBB athletes.”
Experienced Event Director Murphy Reinschreiber has a close relationship with Asia, having directed the Laguna Phuket Triathlon, in Thailand, for the past 15 years “We expect to have representation from around the region, with strong participation from countries like Singapore, Hong Kong and Korea. Some are experienced triathletes and Ironmen, while others are choosing to make their Ironman debut at Ironman China.”
Amateur athletes in the US and Europe are frequently finding that Ironman races in more well known locations in North American and Europe are at capacity soon after entries open. Due to the extensive logistics involved in a complex and day-long event such as Ironman, participant numbers must be capped to ensure the safety of all racers.
“That’s why Ironman China is appealing - It’s the world’s first destination Ironman event.” believes Reinschreiber. “Competitive long haul airfares, and the rise of low cost airlines within Asia add to the attraction of combining a holiday with events like Ironman China.”
Haikou, the race site, on Hainan Island is often dubbed China’s Hawaii, in reference to the long white beaches, calm tropical waters, and clear blue skies.
China’s first Ironman event will be held on 20 April, in Hainan, China.
About Ironman China LtdIronman China is owned and produced by Ironman China Ltd. For further information on Ironman China please see IronmanChina.com.
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