Penrith will have its own Ironman event from next year after a landmark deal was secured by the NSW State Government, which will see some of the world’s best athletes compete at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.
Known as a ‘Half Ironman’, Ironman 70.3 is one of a series of middle-distance triathlon races organised by the World Triathlon Corporation. The ‘70.3’ refers to the total distance in miles, with each distance of the swim, bike and run segments reduced to half the distances of those found in an Ironman triathlon.
“The Ironman 70.3 Series is the fastest growing triathlon series in the world, with over 67 events held in 24 countries that serve as qualifiers for the Ironman World Championship 70.3,” Minister for Sport and Recreation, Gabrielle Upton said.
The inaugural Ironman 70.3 event will be held on Sunday, November 30, and under the current agreement, will run until 2016.
“Destination NSW estimates the Ironman 70.3 series, which will be held annually in western Sydney from 2014 to 2016, is expected to generate more than $2.5 million in direct visitor impact from overseas, interstate and intrastate visitors who come to NSW specifically to attend the event,” Ms Upton added.
Athletes will race on a fast Ironman 70.3 course over smooth road surfaces with the picturesque Blue Mountains as a backdrop. They will swim in the purpose-built Penrith Lakes, and then complete a two lap run that encircles the Regatta Centre, providing great access to spectators of the entire race.
“Securing this Ironman 70.3 for NSW not only ensures western Sydney’s great sporting facilities will be showcased to competitors from all over the world, but also that local businesses will reap the economic rewards,” Penrith State MP, Stuart Ayres said.
