Ironman 70.3 St George is now full. Formerly a full-distance Ironman event that was renowned for its spectacular scenery and supportive community, the new race has become a popular lead-up race to the Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Lake Las Vegas, Nevada, thanks to its similar course profile and 75 qualifying spots.
Taking place this year on 4 May 2013, Ironman 70.3 St George will also serve as the Ironman 70.3 US Pro Championship.
“Like the full-distance race, the 70.3 course takes advantage of the terrain features of this beautiful place, including an brilliant climb right through the incredible scenery of Snow Canyon State Park,” said Kevin Lewis, Director of Sports Marketing with the St. George Convention and Tourism Office.
“The course profile and conditions are almost identical to the Ironman World Championship 70.3 course, and the community support for the event is second to none. I think it is going to be one of the true highlights for the Ironman brand and athletes are going to love it.”
Considered one of the most breath-taking courses on the Ironman circuit, the new Ironman 70.3 race utilizes many of the same features seen in the full-distance event. The 1.2 mile, one loop swim takes place in beautiful Sand Hollow Reservoir. That’s followed by a truly spectacular bike course that won’t offer as much climbing as the old Ironman course, but now includes a four-mile climb through scenic Snow Canyon. The run course includes one loop of the original Ironman St. George course, including a number of challenging hills.
Ironman 70.3 St George will continue as a destination event for families thanks to the tourist opportunities the area provides. St George is a hiking, climbing, mountain biking, trail running and cycling paradise.
The welcoming community has been lauded by Ironman athletes. 99% of the respondents in a post-race athlete survey gave St. George the highest possible rating, saying it was a “great place with friendly people,” while 86% considered the race to be “fabulous”.
Three out of four of the athletes who have competed at the event say they’ll return for a vacation, while more than half said they’ll be back to train in the area.
