Demand for entry into the inaugural Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire has exceeded expectations for the race organisers as all general individual entry places for the event sold out in 14 minutes.
Entry opened to over 8,000 pre-registered athletes at 13:00 GMT today, demonstrating not only the demand for a new and flat race in the UK, but also the continued rise in athletes looking to embark on the Ironman journey, which comprises a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile half marathon run for IM 70.3 events.
To be held on Sunday 14 June 2015, the event will be based at Shugborough Hall Estate. The swim will mark the start of the race at Chasewater Country Park, followed by a one loop bike route taking in the picturesque Staffordshire scenery in and around Cannock Chase. This single circuit course will then link back to and finish in the stunning setting of Shugborough Estate.
Ironman UK has a strong charity fundraising partnership with a number of Official Charities, who each have guaranteed places for athletes looking to race whilst also making a contribution to these hugely worthwhile causes.
Further guaranteed places are also available through Nirvana, Official Ironman Europe Travel Agent.
Dan James, Race Director at Ironman UK, said “We have had a phenomenal response from the moment we announced 70.3 Staffordshire. The venue of Shugborough and the amazing backdrop of Staffordshire offers the perfect setting in every aspect. We couldn’t have achieved this without the support of the county who have fully embraced staging such an event and very much look forward to welcoming all of the athletes to this exciting new race next June.”
Mike Lawrence, Cabinet Member for Children and Community Safety on Staffordshire County Council, said “We are thrilled this exciting event is coming to our county and that it is already had such huge interest from athletes. This event gives us a great opportunity to promote tourism and Staffordshire’s growing reputation as a sporting destination.
“We will be working hard with all parties involved to welcome the athletes to our county and to make sure the race becomes an annual highlight.”
Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire is one of more than 70 events in the global Ironman 70.3 series and will act as a qualifying event for age group athletes to qualify for the 2015 Ironman 70.3 World Championship, being held in Europe for the first time, hosted by Zell am See, Austria.
For athletes looking to experience Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire as a part of a team, entry for the team relay category will open in October. Ironman 70.3 Staffordshire will also be hosting an IronKids run event for kids aged 3-14.
www.ironman.com/staffordshire70.3
www.staffordshire.gov.uk/ironman
