UK Ironman 70.3 this weekend
The UK Ironman 70.3 triathlon will be held at Wimbleball Lake, Exmoor on Fathers Day, Sunday 15th June. The event consists of a 1.2 mile swim, a 56 mile bike ride and a 13.1 mile run. Approximately 1,500 athletes will compete for an opportunity to qualify for one of the 100 qualifying slots for the Ford Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Clearwater, Florida.
The 2008 UK Ironman 70.3 takes place each year, this popular race continues to attract talented age groupers and world-renowned professional athletes, including Chris McCormack, to its starting line. Athletes from around the globe are drawn to the challenge and beauty seen throughout the venue.
Sunday's race will take the athletes through 70.3 miles of scenic Wimbleball Lake, woodlands and meadows of the famed UK countryside, in the heart of Exmoor National Park. The competitor's journey will lead them to a rewarding finish line where enthusiastic spectators applaud their determination and willpower.
Since its inception in 1978, on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu, Ironman has made history with distinguished events and inspirational athletes. With the growth of the Ironman 70.3 Series, athletes will continue to have new and exciting race opportunities. Participating in an Ironman 70.3 event is unlike any other experience and, as you will see on race day, to experience an Ironman 70.3 is an accomplishment both participants and spectators won't forget.
The UK IRONMAN 70.3 has found a home amongst the splendours of the Exmoor Countryside, nestling amongst the hills and valleys which punctuate the course. The course provides a tremendous yet scenic challenge for the athletes with 52 hills in 56 miles and that's just the bike course! This year, sees the strongest field ever assembled as athletes return to once again take up the challenge.
For some it will be their first Ironman 70.3 experience, taking the time to enjoy each mile, knowing that when they finish, they will become part of the Ironman family. And for others returning again to add to their race resume, we wish you all another successful Ironman journey.
Get there early this Father's Day to be one of the enthusiastic spectators to applaud the 1500 athletes taking part in an international sporting event on Exmoor. On arrival at Wimbleball Lake you will be directed into a designated car park. This car park is the one you will use at all times when coming into the Race Venue. Rotary Marshals will guide you to your parking space. Please note that the Car Park will be closed on race day from 6am to 11.30am. This is to ensure the safety of you, the athlete and we ask that you remind all of your friends, family and fans to please ensure that that they arrive before 6am.
Mike Bishop, Active Exmoor said "Come and watch the competitors swim in the lake, bike around the hills and run miles through open countryside. There are feed stations and medical tents on hand for the athletes. It is an exhilarating experience, and that's just for those watching".
This is a popular race with a variety of national and international champions attending, including IRONMAN World Champion Chris McCormack, IRONMAN UK favourite Bryan Rhodes and 2007 UK IRONMAN 70.3 winner Fraser Cartmell.
A variety of locals are also taking up the challenge, including Dave Jackson from Somerset Activity & Sports Partnership. Dave has completed the Burnham on Sea Triathlon on Sunday 1st June as part of his rigorous training. Dave said "I am looking forward to the challenge with nervous anticipation. After watching the UK Ironman 70.3 from the comfort of a kayak as a support for the swim part of the competition for the past two years I have felt inspired to join in on this incredible experience". He is hoping lots of people will come along on the day to cheer him on!
UK IRONMAN 70.3 has once again been requested to ask athletes/spectators not to approach the lake through Brompton Regis. Brompton Regis is a small village and struggles to cope with the large demands of traffic that IRONMAN can place upon the narrow village roads. Directions to the venue avoiding Brompton Regis are available on the website www.ironmanuk.com.
There will be a variety of stall and exhibits to keep you and your family entertained on the day, including the delights that Wimbleball Lake has to offer. For further information visit: www.activeexmoor.com or www.ironmanuk.com. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday!
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