ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta to continue through 2014

The Augusta Sports Council and World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) today announced a three-year extension of the 2009 agreement to continue the ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta competition through 2014.  Billed as the “World’s Largest Ironman Event,” the race has generated nearly $10-million in economic impact in its first two years. A sell-out field of 3,000+ is expected once again for the 2011 race, scheduled for Sunday, September 25.

Introduced in 2006, the Ironman 70.3 Series has grown to include more than 50 events, offering exciting races around the world that qualify athletes for the Marine Corps Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Henderson, Nev. Ironman 70.3 races consist of a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike and a 13.1-mile (half marathon) run, which adds up to 70.3 miles of total racing. The ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta field of athletes is made up of elite-level amateurs, beginners and world class professional triathletes who will compete for a share of a $15,000 prize purse.

The Augusta Sports Council will host the event, and race management will be provided by the World Triathlon Corporation. “Hosting the ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta has been a historic benchmark for the Augusta Sports Council” said Chief Executive Director Brinsley Thigpen. “On behalf of our many community partners and 900+ volunteers, we look forward to continuing our partnership with such a well-known elite sports brand.”

“Augusta has proven to be an ideal destination for Ironman 70.3,” said Steve Meckfessel, chief operations officer for WTC. “We’re excited to extend the contract through 2014 and expect continued success in the coming years.”

Race registration for the 2011 ESi Ironman 70.3 Augusta is still open for participants and a volunteer recruitment effort is underway. For additional information, visit www.ironmanaugusta.com or contact the Augusta Sports Council at 706.722.8326.