The TOUGHMAN Half series of half iron distance races across the Americas has confirmed the addition of ORCA wetsuits, CLIF Bar, Altra run shoes, Symantec, Security Risk Advisors, and Polar Electronics as series sponsors for 2016.
“Our series continues to grow in both popularity and the number of races because we represent grass roots triathlon but with a standardized format,” said TOUGHMAN founder Richard Izzo. “Athletes that register for a TOUGHMAN race know that they will get a safe, great race experience at every TOUGHMAN venue.”
He added, “Having another brand offer for all athletes as a choice is also good for the sport.”
With 15 locations currently in North and South America, the TOUGHMAN team notes that its brand is the ‘third largest in the world’ [after IRONMAN and the Challenge Family brands]. More TOUGHMAN race locations will also be announced in the coming weeks.
This year’s TOUGHMAN Half International Championship will take place on 18 September at Lake Welch, Harriman State Park (just 20 miles north of NYC). There will be over US$30,000 worth of age group awards and a cash purse of US$4,950 for elite qualifiers that come from all of the TOUGHMAN series races.
The TOUGHKids National Championships – billed as the ‘largest kids triathlon series in the US’ – will take place at the same location the day before, on Saturday 17 September.
The organisers add that on 18 September athletes will be given personalized bibs, designated rack spots and a swag bag stocked with goodies. With over 1,400 volunteers, 18 aid stations on the bike and run, the athletes will also be treated to a post-race BBQ, beer garden and massage. Walters Hotdog truck, a bouncy house from Wacky Inflatables and a DJ will all be on hand for family enjoyment. The TOUGHMAN tracking app will also be available for family members to get live updates.
Athletes and volunteers can make use of the TOUGHMAN Community Fund, which allows fundraising for charities of their choice.
In 2015, the TOUGHMAN event brand visited Florida, Indiana, Wisconsin, Tupper Lake, Washington State, Minnesota, Alabama, Utah, New Mexico and New York. With a confirmed current total of 15 events, in 2016, the series will return to its 2015 event locations – with Antofagasta in Northern Chile a new destination this year. Other destinations include Tennessee; Lake Havasu in Arizona; Columbus, Georgia; and Mayaguez in Puerto Rico.
