Orange County Set To Host Orangeman Half-Distance Triathlon

Southern California is gaining a new half-iron distance race. The inaugural Orangeman Triathlon will take place in just a few months on Sept. 25, 2011 and will span Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel.

See the press release below:

The inaugural Orangeman Half-Distance Triathlon is scheduled to take place on September 25th, 2011, marking the first long-course triathlon ever presented in Orange County, California. The USA Triathlon sanctioned event will traverse the communities of Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel and will feature breathtaking and iconic Southern California scenery.

“We’re thrilled to offer, at long last, the first and only half-distance triathlon in Orange County,” said David Flournoy, race director and long-time multi-sport enthusiast. Flournoy and co-director Clegg Porter have worked tirelessly with officials from the municipalities of Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano and Laguna Niguel to ensure the best possible race course and conditions. “The race will utilize area roadways, trails and beach paths,” said Flournoy. “We’ve worked closely with local authorities to fine-tune the course to create an optimal athletic experience, minimize the impact of road closures and focus on safety.”

“Given the large number of triathletes living and training in this area, we saw a distinct void in terms of half-distance triathlons offered close to home in the fall time frame,” continued Flournoy. “Our goal is to make Orangeman an annual A-race for many Southern California competitors. However, while we hope to draw numerous athletes from the local and surrounding communities, our aim is two-fold, in terms of also appealing to athletes across the country and even around the globe. Dana Point is an incomparable vacation destination, with an ideal climate, a casual beach-going vibe and activities for all ages. We’re inviting athletes to extend their summer with a family trip to Orange County in September, highlighted by the Orangeman race.”

Race organizers are eager to expose the host communities to the many positive aspects of endurance sports. “We believe the race will be as much a personal challenge for the participants as it will be an exciting educational experience for community members who have never witnessed a long-course triathlon firsthand.

We also believe the athletes and their support crews enjoying the race week in Orange County will provide a significant economic boost to area businesses. It promises to be a winning scenario, any way you slice it,” said Porter.

The headline event will kick off with a 1.2-mile open water swim off Salt Creek Beach Park. Next, an out-and-back 56-mile bike course will send cyclists through the cities of Dana Point and San Juan Capistrano, with a challenging climb and subsequent speedy descent along the Ortega Highway through the picturesque Cleveland National Forest. The 13.1-mile run will take place entirely on the Salt Creek Corridor Trail, with a spectacular coastal finish chute.

In addition to the Half-Distance Triathlon, athletes may choose from a variety of Orangeman events, including a Half-Distance Triathlon Relay, an Aquabike (1.2- mile swim, 56-mile bike) and a 1.2-mile Open-Water Swim. The event’s accompanying Fitness Expo will showcase products from multi-sport manufacturers and area businesses. Registration opened in late May 2011 and already several hundred individuals have committed to the Orangeman challenge. Organizers expect the event to sell out, as participant numbers will be capped at 1,500. Athletes are encouraged to register prior to August 1st, 2011 to take advantage of the event’s early registration fee structure and to secure a spot on the start line.

For more information or to register for the inaugural 2011 Orangeman Triathlon events, please visit Orangemantriathlon.com.