Published September 9, 2010 12:50PM
The newest Ironman 70.3 event will take place in Muncie, Ind. on July 9, 2011.
Read the press release from the World Triathlon Corporation below:
Today, World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) announces the addition of one of triathlon’s venerable races to its ever-growing global Ironman 70.3 portfolio. The inaugural Ironman 70.3 Muncie, formerly the Muncie Endurathon, will take place on July 9, 2011, in Muncie, Ind. Registration for the new event opens today at noon EDT on Ironmanmuncie.com.
“The city looks forward to continuing a 31-year tradition that began with the Muncie Endurathon, to now be carried on with Ironman 70.3 Muncie, and welcomes the long-term commitment by the World Triathlon Corporation, which will bring incalculable benefits to Muncie,” said Sharon McShurley, mayor, City of Muncie.
Previously produced by Muncie Endurathon, Inc., the well-respected Muncie Endurathon is one of the longest-running triathlons in the United States and has played host to many national and international long course championships throughout its history. Ironman will build upon the event within the Muncie community, honoring long-standing traditions such as the Sprint race and pre-race pasta dinner.
“The Delaware County Commissioners are very excited to welcome one of the world’s premier sporting events to our community beginning in July 2011,” said Todd Donati, president, Delaware County Commissioners. “Taking over for the very successful Muncie Endurathon event, the Ironman sport is due to attract more elite and age group athletes and additional revenue for our community. We are very pleased to be able to accommodate such an impressive sporting event.”
Ironman 70.3 Muncie will take athletes on a 1.2-mile swim in Prairie Creek Reservoir and a 56-mile bike on the Cardinal Greenway that winds throughout rural Indiana. The race finishes with a challenging run around the south side of Prairie Creek Reservoir over rolling country roads. Ironman 70.3 Muncie will serve as a qualifier for the 2011 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3, offering 50 age group slots and a $15,000 professional prize purse.
“Muncie is excited to become a part of the Ironman 70.3 family,” said Brian Myrick, race director. “Muncie and the surrounding communities have been incredibly supportive of the event for the last 31 years, and we look forward to continuing that tradition for years to come. Athletes can expect the same great courses, Hoosier hospitality and tremendous volunteer support they have come to love.”