The IRONMAN Group has announced that Laconia, New Hampshire will be the new host venue for the return of the IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman triathlon.
Back in 2016, having taking place in Gilford, New Hampshire, for a number of years, IRONMAN confirmed the cancellation of the 2017 IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman and Timberman Sprint Triathlons.
The New England half-distance triathlon, originally hosted from 2001 to 2016, will now re-join the IRONMAN North American series in 2021 with the first edition of the new event taking place on Sunday, August 22. General registration opens on Monday, May 17.
“We could not be more excited to see this fantastic event return to the Lakes Region of New Hampshire,” said Scott Langen, Regional Director for The IRONMAN Group.
“We’ve been working hard to bring an IRONMAN-branded event back to this region and are thrilled to call Laconia its new home. We know many athletes will be happy to hear the IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman name again, and this new location will serve to only add to the great history of this event. We can’t wait to race in New Hampshire again.”
Situated between Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Winnisquam, the city of Laconia, New Hampshire sits only minutes from its original IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman location in Gilford. Participants can expect a 1.2-mile freshwater swim in the clear blue waters of Lake Opechee.
Water temperature in August ranges from 68-75°F. Following the swim, athletes will embark on a scenic, out and back bike course through rolling hills and several challenging climbs. The course will utilize three miles of the New Hampshire Motor Speedway which is known for hosting NASCAR events.
Athletes will then cap off their journey with a two-loop, half marathon skirting the edge of Lake Opechee, offering views of the neighbouring mountains, and rolling hills to engage participants before crossing the finish line near the downtown centre of Laconia.
“I’m thrilled that IRONMAN and the city of Laconia have partnered on this event,” said Mayor of Laconia, Andrew Hosmer. “The Lakes Region of New Hampshire is a spectacular venue for this triathlon.
“With the scenic vistas of New Hampshire’s Presidential Range and the sparkling waters of our many lakes this is sure to be a premier event. We can’t wait for this event and look forward to hosting the participants and their guests.”
“The city of Laconia and the entire Lakes Region are thrilled to be hosting the IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman event,” said Laconia City Manager Scott Myers. “Being able to showcase the natural beauty of our lakes along with our warm and welcoming hospitality is the perfect recipe for athletes and visitors from near and far to make wonderful memories and want to return year after year.
“We look forward to a successful race and a mutually beneficial, long-term partnership with IRONMAN.”
General registration for the inaugural 2021 IRONMAN 70.3 Timberman triathlon opens on Monday, May 17. The event will offer qualifying slots to the 2022 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Taupō, New Zealand. The event will also host a women’s only professional race. The male professionals will take to the start line the following week at IRONMAN 70.3 Maine.
www.ironman.com/im703-timberman
