One foot in front of the other.
From Galway City Tribune
March 19, 2010 – 7:45am
BY ENDA CUNNINGHAM
TWO Galway businessmen have secured the rights to bring the gruelling ‘Ironman’ triathlon competition to Galway next year – which will attract more than 6,000 visitors and provide an estimated boost of around €5m to the local economy.
As well as attracting ‘big spenders’, the event could see up to 100,000 people line Salthill Promenade to watch the tri-athletes taking part.
The Ironman 70.3 Series (so called because it involves a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile cycle and 13.1 mile run) is an exhausting test of endurance that has become the fastest-growing triathlon series in the world, with 31 events internationally, leading to qualification for the World Championship in Florida.
Eoin McCormack and Ronan Gilligan of E&R Events have beaten off strong international competition to be awarded the contract to hold the event in Galway for the next five years.
They expect thousands of people from around Ireland and Europe to flock to Galway for the weekend-long Ironman competition and festival in September 2011. It will attract 2,500 competitors alone. It has been secured with the help of Fáilte Ireland’s Sports Events Development Fund and the Sports Council of Ireland.
Ironman will see competitors swim part of Galway Bay in Salthill, before making their way to collect bikes in Salthill Park and depart on a cycle to Connemara, through Oughterard and back through Newcastle, before a half-marathon in the city.
“We’ve been working on the logistics of this for the last eight or nine months. It will be a huge attraction for Galway. These things sell out fast, and we’d expect around 1,750 people from overseas, and 4,500 others to travel to Galway,” Mr McCormack said.
As one of the leading triathlon and bicycle retailers in the U.S. that supports athletes, all3sports.com is proud to announce that it has added Mirinda Carfrae and Heather Gollnick to its family of world-class professional triathletes.
“I am thrilled to be working with a company that supports their athletes and customers to race at their best,” said Carfrae. “all3sports.com offers the widest array of products and is my ‘one-stop’ triathlon shop, with great people and incredible service.”
A native of Queensland, Australia, Carfrae has dominated the Ironman 70.3 series for the past 2 years, posting 9 wins including the 2007 Clearwater Ironman 70.3 World Championship. Carfrae’s debut at the 2009 Ironman World Championship proved that she has what it takes to win the Ironman World Championships in coming years. In only her first attempt at the full Ironman distance, Carfrae finished second overall and ran a marathon course record of 2:56:51.
“all3sports.com truly appreciates the technical needs of triathletes, and they work hard to provide every advantage possible when it comes to product knowledge and competitive prices,” said Heather Gollnick. “If you have a passion for triathlon and desire a relationship with a first class organization that can fully support your triathlon dreams, look no further than all3sports.com. Their motto, “Dream Big – Dream Fast” is one I can fully identify with.”
Alongside her 5 Ironman victories, Gollnick also has two Ironman 70.3 titles on her triathlon resume. A seasoned multi-tasker and ex-gymnast, Gollnick’s repertoire also includes managing a successful coaching company, directing the marketing for the flourishing Rev3 Triathlon Race Series and finding time to chase after her three active children.
“Mirinda and Heather are two remarkable women who embody the friendly yet competitive spirit of all3sports.com,” said Morgan Clark, President of all3sports.com. “They shine in their pursuit of excellence on and off the course and we’re proud to be able to support them.”
Carfrae and Gollnick join 2-time Ironman World Champion Craig Alexander, and first year triathlon pros Mary Miller and Eric Bell as part of the all3sports.com growing family.
Poised to dominate the triathlon world in 2010, Specialized has launched its first-ever comprehensive triathlon team, with multiple athletes in each of the three major specialties: Long Course, Short Course, and Xterra. Hand selected by Bobby Behan, Specialized Global Marketing Manager for MTB and Triathlon, the team athletes represent the best in the business – from decorated vets to young, upstart pros.
“It’s super exciting to be instrumental in the construction of this star-studded global team, many of which have inspired my own triathlon career,” said Behan. “Collectively, the team has won every major title in triathlon from the Olympic Games to World titles in ITU, Ironman, and Xterra.”
Long Course Triathlon Team
Chris “Macca” McCormack
Rasmus Henning
Philip Graves
Jordan Rapp
Desiree Ficker
Peter Reid
Long Course standouts Chris “Macca” McCormack, the 2007 World Ironman and 1997 ITU World Champion; Peter Reid, three-time Ironman World Champion; and Desiree Ficker, 2008 Ironman South Africa 70.3 champ, have all returned. “It is a great honor to represent the big S around the globe,” said Peter Reid, longtime Specialized ambassador and athlete. “For more than 10 years I’ve been like the kid in the candy shop – my candy shop being Specialized, of course.”
And this year they are joined by three more ringers. Jordan Rapp won the 2009 Ironman Arizona, smashing the bike course record. Philip Graves, also a cycling ace, is the youngest ever Ironman Champion (at just 20 years old) after winning in the UK last August. And Rasmus Henning – who just crossed over to Long Course racing after an accomplished ITU career– placed fifth in his first attempt at Kona last year, despite breaking his wrist two weeks prior and being told not to race.
The Long Course team will ride the new S-Works Shiv and S-Works Transition – bikes that Henning thinks will help him accomplish a huge goal. “I am really happy to be a part of Specialized for the 2010 season. My big goal this year is winning Ironman Hawaii, and I am certain that the professional team surrounding me with my bike set-up will be the best I have ever had.”
Short Course Triathlon Team
Javier Gomez
Simon Whitfield
Lisa Norden
Gavin Noble
ITU Development Team
Leonardo Chacon Corrales
Barbara Riveros
Abrahm Louw
Specialized will also be diving head first into short course – a timely entry with the London Olympic Games only two years away. “The Olympic Games is the world’s greatest sporting event, and the athletes competing in ITU triathlon are the ultimate testament to the athleticism that defines the Games,” said Behan.
Racing on their new S-Works Tarmac SL3 and S-Works Amira bikes, the fearsome new squad will include: Olympic gold and silver medalist Simon Whitfield; Multiple World Cup winner and former World Champion Javier Gomez; and former World U23 Champion and current second-ranked woman, Lisa Norden.
Norden and Gomez are looking forward to their new toys and the benefits of a major sponsor. “My new Specialized S Works SL3 is so light,” said Gomez. “You really feel that all your power is transferred directly to the bike, and you don’t waste anything. And of course, it’s beautiful!” Norden added, “Having someone at the race site looking after me and my equipment is huge – it’s new to me and the sport.”
Just as committed to grass-roots level racing as their international stars, Specialized has also teamed up with ITU Development Director Libby Burrell in support of the ITU Scholarship Program. Responsible for fostering the rise of stars such as Norden, the program was created, in part, to support national federations and regions where there are limited human and financial resources.
Xterra Triathlon Team
Conrad “The Caveman” Stoltz
Dan Hugo
Melanie McQuaid
Of course the team wouldn’t be complete without Specialized veteran athlete Conrad “The Caveman” Stoltz or Melanie McQuaid – both three-time World Xterra Champions and both hungry for another podium. They are joined by Conrad’s fellow South African and upcoming Xterra athlete Dan Hugo. All will be outfitted with S-Works Epic and S-Works Epic 29er bikes.
“I’m really excited to be part of such a diverse group of triathletes,” said Stoltz. “Being part of a team feels really good; it’s only logical to have such a phenomenal group riding the best bicycles out there.”
If you are even tangentially involved in triathlon then you have likely heard something about what is one of the year’s most anticipated new races, the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon.
The race, which takes place tomorrow, March 13, 2010 is boasting a completely stacked Men’s and Women’s professional field which includes names such as Faris Al-Sultan, Eneko Llanos, Julie Dibens and Tereza Macel.
The course itself caters to racers who are stronger cyclists. The course features a 3K, 2 lap swim, a 200K bike and 40K, 2 lap run. This should allow for those racers who are often run down in some races after a strong bike leg, to not have so far to carry their lead off the bike.
To see the odds for the professionals, click the links below:
Abu Dhabi Triathlon odds: Women
The prize money breakdown is as follows:
Position Male Pro Female Pro
1st $50000 $50000
2nd $20000 $20000
3rd $15000 $15000
4th $10000 $10000
5th $7500 $7500
6th $5000 $5000
7th $3000 $3000
8th $2000 $2000
9th $1500 $1500
10th $1000 $1000
Total $115000 $115000
Age Group Male Female
>19 $1000 $1000
20-24 $1000 $1000
25-29 $1000 $1000
30-34 $1000 $1000
35-39 $1000 $1000
40-44 $1000 $1000
45-49 $1000 $1000
50-54 $1000 $1000
55-59 $1000 $1000
60+ $1000 $1000
Total $10000 $10000
LEXINGTON, MA (March 10, 2010) – Saucony, Inc, a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel, today announced the signing of Olympic triathlete Jarrod Shoemaker, ranked 10th in the world and top American in 2009, and Sarah Groff, a member of the USA Triathlon National Team, to multi-year endorsement contracts. Shoemaker is the winner of the 2009 Hamburg World Championship Series Race and the ITU Duathlon World Championships, while Groff, who competed in her first World Cup race in 2005, vaulted to the #4 World Cup ranking and top American in 2008.
“Saucony has such a rich history in the sport of triathlon, and I’m thrilled to have a partner with the experience, knowledge and products to compete at the highest levels,” said Jarrod Shoemaker. “The brand’s focus on innovation is really apparent in their training and racing gear. Their AMP PRO2 training and recovery apparel is allowing me to train harder and recover faster. I look forward to proudly representing Saucony as I continue in my quest for the 2012 Olympics.”
Shoemaker qualified for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team by finishing as the top American 11th overall at the 2007 ITU Beijing World Cup. He earned his first world cup podium finish with second at Edmonton in 2006 and in 2004 he was the Under 23 National Champion and the 2005 Under 23 World Champion. In 2009 Shoemaker was named USAT Elite Triathlete of the year. Shoemaker is a graduate of Dartmouth College.
“I’m honored to represent a brand that is both motivating and authentic,” said Sarah Groff. “Saucony truly appreciates the technical needs of the triathlete and they really work hard to provide every advantage possible when designing footwear and apparel. I’m thrilled that Saucony is now part of my Olympic focus.”
Groff’s other accomplishments include winning the 2007 ITU Aquathlon World Championships, finishing 2nd at ITU World Team Championships, finishing 4th at Edmonton World Cup in 2007 and earning All-NESCAC and All-American honors as a freestyle swimmer at Middlebury College.
“Jarrod and Sarah are an exciting addition to our Saucony triathlon roster,” said Richie Woodworth, president of Saucony. “Both embody the competitive spirit of the brand and their passion for winning is an inspiration to the whole Saucony team. We look forward to their input as we continue to develop the finest performance footwear and apparel for runners and triathletes everywhere.”
Both Shoemaker’s and Groff’s race schedules for 2010 include:
· ITU World Championship Series – Sydney, Australia
· Hy-Vee ITU Elite Cup – Des Moines, Iowa
· ITU World Championship Series – Hamburg, Germany
· ITU World Championship Series – London, England
· ITU World Championship Series – Kitzbuehl, Austria
· ITU World Championship Finale – Budapest, Hungry
Shoemaker and Groff join other Saucony triathletes, including: Ironman World Champion Kate Major; 11-time Ironman champion Lisa Bentley; 2-time Ironman champions Dede Griesbauer and Michael Lovato; Longhorn 70.3 champion Richie Cunningham; and top U.S. triathlete Linsey Corbin, among others.
Shoemaker lives and trains in Maynard, MA and Groff in Hanover, NH.
About Saucony, Inc.: Saucony, Inc., a subsidiary of Collective Brands, Inc., is a leading global supplier of performance athletic footwear and apparel with its widely recognized brands Saucony and Saucony Originals. For more information, go to www.saucony.com.
From the New York Post
By LACHLAN CARTWRIGHT and BILL SANDERSON
A helmet may not be enough to protect cyclists from Google Maps’ latest feature.
The search engine rolled out a “bicycling directions” option yesterday that is filled with potentially fatal flaws, including routes that cut across Central Park’s treacherous tranverse roads and steer cyclists to truck-riddled thoroughfares.
A Post reporter rented a bike on the Hudson River Greenway at 42nd Street and plotted a course to Hunter College — and quickly discovered the hard way that Google has a lot to learn about the streets of New York.
After a traffic-snarled ride up Eighth Avenue, our intrepid cyclist was sent on a semi-circle around Columbus Circle, and soon found himself holding up a line of 15 angry motorists — many leaning on their horns — on the narrow and frightening 65th Street Transverse, which does not have a bike lane.
Google overlooked the far safer Park Drive that loops through the park.
In Brooklyn, Google steers cyclists into the path of anti-bike Hasidic Jews by designating Bedford Avenue between Division and Flushing avenues in Williamsburg as a legitimate bike route. The city sandblasted away that street’s bike lane last year after protests.
Google mappers owned up to the woes. “The team does know about some of the problems in New York,” said spokeswoman Elaine Filadelfo.
There were more problems with the parks.
Inside Central Park, Google shows The Mall and some footpaths south of 72nd Street as bike paths — although park rules make them definitely off-limits.
“The parks are one of the things we need to work on,” Filadelfo admitted. “We don’t have great data for them.”
Among the other problems: Google directs New Jersey-bound cyclists over the north path of the George Washington Bridge, even though the bridge’s official bike path is on the south side.
From Midtown to Yankee Stadium, Google Maps sends cyclists up Central Park West and then on a hazardous 30-block stretch of Frederick Douglass Boulevard to the Macombs Dam Bridge.
A safer pick would have been up St. Nicholas Avenue and eventually over the Madison Avenue Bridge.
Bike advocates like Google’s effort, and say it will help recreational cyclists find safe paths.
“The fact that Google is taking it on brings it to millions of mobile devices and computers,” said Wiley Norvell of Transportation Alternatives. “We’re enthusiastic.”
By New York Road Runners
NEW YORK — A knee injury has forced 2009 ING New York City Marathon champion Meb Keflezighi to withdraw from next week’s NYC Half-Marathon, it was announced today by New York Road Runners officials.
The NYC Half-Marathon on Sunday, March 21, is the richest half-marathon in the United States, with a prize purse of $100,000. The race boasts a men’s field led by marathon world record-holder Haile Gebrselassie of Ethiopia, two-time ING New York City Marathon winner Marilson Gomes dos Santos of Brazil, and United States Olympians Anthony Famiglietti and Abdi Abdirahman. The women’s field features 2004 Olympic marathon bronze medalist Deena Kastor of the United States and 2009 London Marathon runner-up Mara Yamauchi of Great Britain.
“Due to a setback in my training a few weeks ago, I will not be prepared to compete in the NYC Half-Marathon,” Keflezighi said in a statement to NYRR officials. “The New York Road Runners have assembled a great field once again, and I was looking forward to being a top contender. But I developed soreness on my left knee that required me to take several days off and cut back on mileage for a few weeks. Since I lost most of the build-up phase of my marathon training in February, I will have to pass on a tune-up race and focus my time on preparing for the Boston Marathon [next month].”
Keflezighi has not raced since his historic victory last November, when he became the first American winner in New York since 1982, when Alberto Salazar won the last of his three consecutive titles.
Content courtesy of New York Road Runners
Tampa, FL (Vocus) March 11, 2010 –Magnetic, a full-service web design and development company based in Tampa, Florida, today announced the launch of the new e-commerce web site aimed towards triathletes and endurance sport athletes of all abilities. Triathletes from around the world will now be able to purchase their favorite swim, bike, and run products online at the new Ironman360.com (http://www.ironman360.com) web site.
“We investigated several custom website development companies (http://www.magnetic.com/web-development/) before we contracted with Magnetic,” said Hunter Jewett, Vice President and General Manager of World Endurance Sports, LLC. “We knew that we wanted a sophisticated and professional site, but it also had to incorporate the latest flash development, social networking and ease of use functionality. Magnetic’s marketing team led us through a site development plan with a look and feel that epitomized what we were after.”
The new site contains a fully-functioning shopping cart system which will allow customers to browse and then purchase triathlon-related products from an inventory of several hundred products from the most well-known brands for Ironman (http://ironman.com/) triathletes. While shopping on the site, customers can navigate through the inventory by category, brand, or even by products that their favorite professional triathlete uses.
“As a company that encourages fitness and a healthy lifestyle for our employees, we are extremely proud to be partnering with Ironman360,” says Jennifer Bakunas, President and CEO of Magnetic. “We have a number of employees who compete in triathlons and running races (http://www.magnetic.com/recent-news/Magnetic-Places-1st-In-Gasparilla-15K-Race-Mixed-Team-Division), so our enthusiasm for fitness mixed with our web development services have allowed us to create a site that will grow into an exciting online resource for endurance sport enthusiasts.”
In addition to the new web site, Ironman360.com recently opened a physical store in Tampa. The 4,000 sq. ft. store is outfitted with a full complement of the latest triathlon products and also includes a service center where customers’ bicycles can be upgraded and fixed.
“Their developers and project manager created a fantastic site that would allow a user to identify products quickly, with easy navigation and thoughtful controls. The whole experience in dealing with Magnetic was a pleasure and I cannot say enough good things about them,” Jewett continued. “For 31 years, Ironman® has been recognized for excellence, performance and quality products. With Magnetic’s help, we can now offer the best multi-sport products available to endurance athletes around the world!”
San Diego, Calif. – The Challenged Athletes Foundation® (CAF), a world leader in helping challenged athletes get involved – and stay involved – in sports announces the launch of two of their premier fundraising events: CAF Million Dollar Challenge, Presented by Qualcomm – a 7-day, 620-mile fully supported cycling adventure down the California Coastline from October 16-22, 2010 and the 17th Anniversary Aspen Medical Products San Diego Triathlon Challenge – a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run distance triathlon and festival in La Jolla, CA on Sunday, October 24, 2010. Both events raise more than $1 million each for CAF and help physically challenged individuals get off the side-lines and into the game.
CAF MILLION DOLLAR CHALLENGE, Presented by Qualcomm – October 16-22
***CELEBRITY GUEST PARTICIPANTS***
• Former UCLA and pro basketball star Bill Walton.
• Top pro riders from Garmin-Transitions professional cycling team.
Register here: www.mdc2010.kintera.org
Learn more: www.cyclemdc.com
For the fifth consecutive year, the Challenged Athletes Foundation’s Million Dollar Challenge (MDC), Presented by Qualcomm, will take-on the rugged California Coastline during a 7-day, 620-mile unforgettable charity ride, which has earned a reputation as one of the premier cycling events in the country. The ride combines a challenging personal journey for participants with the satisfaction of making a difference in the lives of others. MDC combines world-class service from a team of ride support professionals with premier accommodations, fabulous meals and amenities.
This year will be filled with stand-out special guests including top pros from the Garmin-Transitions pro cycling team and former UCLA and pro basketball star Bill Walton, who after 36 surgeries himself, understands the importance of good health and the role of fitness and sport in enhancing peoples’ lives. He shares the following sentiments when asked about the value of CAF’s mission: “I support the cause because it’s about dreams and sports for everybody.”
When Bill says “everybody,” he means everybody – size, ability or physical disability shouldn’t impede an individuals opportunity to be active. This includes his new friend and current UCLA student Scout Bassett. The two athletes – Bill towering at 6’11” and Scout standing tall at 4’8” – share the same love for the UCLA Bruins, both have custom made bikes from Holland (due to their size), share a passion for cycling and will lead out one day of the ride. Together they are proof that athletes come in all shapes and sizes. (See the attached images for the dramatic effect)
Aspen Medical Products SAN DIEGO TRIATHLON CHALLENGE – October 24
***LIMITED-TIME SPECIAL OFFER***
10% OFF the San Diego Triathlon Challenge Entry Fee (Extension)
Register before 3pm (PST) on Friday, March 12 to receive the discount.
Register here: www.sdtc10.kintera.org
Learn more: www.challengedathletes.org/compete/SDTC_Intro.htm
CAF’s Aspen Medical Products San Diego Triathlon Challenge, a half-distance triathlon and festival, began almost two decades ago as a fundraiser to help a fellow injured triathlete and has grown into a celebration of life and sport that is making a difference in the lives of physically challenged athletes around the world. It is an event unlike any other in the world. Inspiration, perspiration and determination are the words of the day, as more than 125 of the world’s top physically challenged athletes take on this grueling yet rewarding course alongside 550 able-bodied triathletes, celebrities and pros.
“The CAF event in San Diego is the greatest day in our sport” said 2009 SDTC participant, professional triathlete and 2007 Ford Ironman World Champion, Chris McCormack. “What I experienced in San Diego with CAF was the most inspiring day of my life. To be a part of what this amazing Foundation does and how they change lives for people was so motivating; it gave me a purpose. I was inspired, and wanted to do more.”
Don’t miss your chance to participate, sponsor, donate to an athlete or volunteer for one of these life-changing events.
Continuing the surge of athletes joining the team this year, Hydrapak announces the latest addition to their ultra running family: 2009 TransRockies Women’s Champion Devon Crosby-Helms
“Joining the Hydrapak team was an easy decision,” says Devon Crosby-Helms. “I believe in the products. For me, the Gel-bots and Soft Flasks are an absolute part of my essentials now. I am able to stay on top of my nutrition and hydration needs easily, without having to fuss with wrappers or packages. Using Gel-bots and Soft Flasks saves me minutes and seconds in getting my nutrition in while racing. That may not seem like a lot, but during 50 and 100 mile races it can make a huge difference. To me, the details matter and Hydrapak covers two of the most important, hydration and nutrition.”
“Hydrapak provides ultrarunners an edge by providing the newest and most innovative products for a sport where efficiency matters” said Jim Vernon, Team Manager at Hydrapak. “With Devon supporting our mission, we have another highly regarded athlete, with extensive nutritional expertise backing up strong performances, spreading the good word.”
After bursting on the Ultra scene in ’07 with many impressive finishes, including several course records, Devon has continued to excel and is now recognized among the world’s top ultra distance runners. In 2009, she held the ultra running world on the edge of their seats as she and her running partner, Caitlin Smith, battled seasoned veterans to win the Gore-Tex Challenge Stage Race through Colorado. She then went on to crush course records in several races including The JFK 50, the oldest and largest Ultra race in the country.
Devon’s upcoming schedule includes: the Napa Valley Marathon, March 7th, Lake Sonoma 50 M, March 27th, American River 50 M, April 10th, Big Sur Marathon, April 25th, Ice Age Trail 50 M, May 8th and the Western States 100 M, June 26th.
Keep up to date with Devon Crosby-Helms on her blog at www.devoncrosbyhelms.com.
Hydrapakis a leading global supplier of active lifestyle hydration equipment. With deep roots in cycling culture, Hydrapak produces a lineup of custom built hydration backpacks, reservoirs, and bottles for a variety of sports, including biking, hiking and running. Hydrapak components are also found on top manufacturers specializing in consumer, commercial and military purposes. Brought to life in 1996 and located in Oakland, CA, Hydrapak products can be found in major retailers and sport specialty stores throughout the world. More information can be found at www.hydrapak.com or by calling 510.632.8318.
The City of New York and the New York Road Runners who hosted the somewhat infamous Men’s Olympic marathon trials before the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games are a little less than thrilled with some news today. If you recall, it was in those trials that Ryan Shay tragically passed away, five and a half miles into the race. The city was hoping that they would again be given the trials for the 2012 London games, however USATF has granted the trials to the city of Houston.
One point in favor of Houston was the $1.7 million in private and public funds that were put up for the event. Here is what NYRR CEO, Mary Wittenberg had to say:
“As an organization fiercely committed to our sport and our athletes, I have to be honest and say that we are disappointed by today’s announcement that both Trials races will be in Houston. It seemed such a win-win to split the genders and to give the fans of two markets the chance to experience the Trials in an up-close-and-personal way. The NY and Boston Trials were unqualified successes. It would have been nice for at least one of us to have had the chance to build on that success and to capitalize on the momentum of the last Trials.
“For us at NYRR, our commitment to our athletes and our sport has always gone way beyond any one day. All of us at NYRR were, however, hoping to have the chance to work with USATF and the USOC to make the very most of that one Trials day for the good of our athletes and our sport. We will look forward to continuing to host our American athletes often throughout the year at NYRR events.”
With this, Houston becomes the first city to host both the Men’s and Women’s marathon trials. The event will be held on January 14, 2012 on a course that has put up some fairly fast times in the past. The top three finishers in each race will go on to represent the United States in the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London.
HOUSTON COURSE RECORDS
Men: 2:07:37 Teshome Gelana Etana, 2010
Women: 2:23:53 Teyiba Erkiso Waka, 2010
March 2, 2010 (Tampa, Fla.) — World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), owners of the portfolio that includes Ironman, 70.3, Iron Girl and IronKids brands, announces its partnership with John Duke for the launch of a new magazine. With plans to appear in late summer, the magazine will feature content for the serious and committed triathlete. Initial subscribers will be participants of domestic events within the 2010 Ironman and 70.3 Series. Digital subscriptions are planned for international participants.
The new magazine called LAVA, which takes its name from the chain of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean where Ironman and the sport began, will take readers into the fiery center of triathlon. While the Ironman World Championship hails as the pinnacle of the sport, athletes who value the regular and hard-core multisport experience will be the target for the magazine.
John Duke will oversee content for the brand and will serve as the magazine’s publisher and advertising director. Duke spent 14 years as publisher of Triathlete Magazine and most recently was Senior Vice President of the Print Media Division for Competitor Group.
“I could not imagine a better team to create the world’s leading triathlon publication,” says Duke. “Our team is excited to build a magazine for people who feel triathlon is not just a hobby, but rather a lifestyle. We are all looking forward to utilizing our first-hand racing experience, journalistic backgrounds and passion within the pages of LAVA.”
The team will consist of Susan Grant-Legacki, former editor of Inside Triathlon, along with Jay Prasuhn, who served as tech editor at Triathlete Magazine for 10 years. Creative will be led by Erica Krystek, the former art director of Inside Triathlon, who was responsible for the redesign of Inside Triathlon’s re-branding in 2008. The sales and advertising effort will be led by 11-time winner of the national track cycling championships, Sean Watkins, who was also the vice president of sales and event marketing for Triathlete Magazine. Heather Gordon, who started at Triathlete Magazine 11 years ago and rose to the position of associate publisher rounds out the team.
For advertising information about LAVA, contact Sean Watkins at Seanwatkins@ironman.com or John Duke at Johnduke@ironman.com. All media-related inquiries can be directed to Blair LaHaye at Blair@ironman.com. Event details about Ironman and 70.3 can be located at www.ironman.com.
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For a second year in a row, Newton Running shoes were rewarded for their outstanding products in the prestigious 220 Triathlon awards held on 13th February at Sandown Park.
Following their 2009 win for ‘Innovative Product of the Year’ the popular ‘Newton Gravity’ training shoe was awarded the 2010 ‘Run Shoe of the Year’ award, beating Asics Noosa and Saucony Fastwitch 3 to the title.
Mike Trees, managing director of Triathlon Consultants (Newton Running’s UK distributor) accepted the award and said “It is a great honour to receive this award on behalf of Newton Running, who have put so much research and development into producing what is now recognised at possibly the greatest running shoe in the world for forefoot and mid foot runners. We at TCL have the relatively easy job of selling the Newton Running shoes the eagerly awaiting public.”
The attached image shows Mike Trees standing with his long time hero in sport Dave Scott, 6 times winner of the Hawaii Ironman and arguably the greatest triathlete to date presenting Newton’s award for Run Shoe of the Year.
According to Crowie’s official Facebook page, his race bike has been stolen! From Crowie:
Last night my black ORBEA ORDU 51cm bike with Shimano Di2 Electronic gears and SRM, along with my road bike and a bunch of other cycling equipment was STOLEN from my garage. Please contact crime stoppers in Australia on 1800 333 000 if you see or hear anything. I will post photos as soon as I can.
Here are a couple of pictures of the Ironman World Champion’s ride (click for larger image):
Here are the specs on Crowie’s stolen bike(s):
Bike Name: Black ORBEA ORDU
Size: 51cm
Headset: Integrated Headset
Derailer Front: SHIMANO 7900 DI2 ELECTRONIC
Brake Lever: Shimano Durace Carbon
Brake Callipers: DI2 Group Set
Cranks: SRM Power Meter
BB-Set: Enduro Grade 3 Grade 3 Ceramic Bearings
Aero…bars: Pro Carbon Missile Flat with Straight Bars
Head Stem: Pro Vibe 85mm
Seat: Fizik Arione Carbon Tri 2
Chain: Durace 10 Speed
Cassette: 12-23 Durace
Training Wheels: Durace Wheels
Tyres: Continental Grand Prix Clinchers
Cages: XLAB Chimp and Gorilla Carbon Cages
XLAB Rear Carbon Hydration System
Pedals: Durace
Frame: Black Orbea ORCA 54 cm
Derailer Front: SHIMANO 7900 Durace
Training Wheels: Durace Wheels
Moment Sporting Events has just announced the date–September 18, 2010—for the San Diego Triathlon Classic. The race, San Diego’s original USAT sanctioned Olympic triathlon, is now open for registration (www.sandiegotriathlonclassic.com).
“The San Diego Triathlon Classic has gained recognition for its spectator-friendly course that winds through some of San Diego’s most precious historic landmarks,” said JT Lyons, president of Moment Sporting Events. “The scenic, yet challenging nature of this premier event has attracted those that simply enjoy the fun and purity of the sport as well as numerous top age groupers and elite triathletes.”
Lyons added that the company moved the event from its original mid-October date to mid-September to allow those competing at the Ford Ironman World Championships to have one more race option “a final tune-up” before heading off to Hawaii.
The San Diego Triathlon Classic will begin and end on the water’s edge at Liberty Station in the newly renovated historic NTC Park. The 1.5K calm water swim is in a protected estuary of San Diego bay. The bike course (40k) travels through Cabrillo National Park, enjoying spectacular views of Mexico, downtown San Diego and the Pacific. The two-loop, fast and flat, 10k run winds along the waterfront in NTC Park, passing the USS recruit.
“We created the San Diego Triathlon Classic course with both the athlete and the spectator in mind,” said Lyons. “All can enjoy the beautiful views of the downtown skyline, historic landmarks and the San Diego Bay. There is a children’s playground, additional park space and shopping just steps away from the start/finish area.”
Race features include participant t-shirts, a unique finisher medal, goodie bags, five-split timing, gourmet post-race food and a microbrew garden. The travel friendly San Diego Triathlon Classic is minutes from the San Diego International Airport. Many restaurants are within walking distance and hotels are just a step away from the start/finish line.
The public is encouraged to watch the race and attend the free two-day Fitness expo Friday, September 17th and Saturday September 18th. The expo will showcase the finest in triathlon-related coaching, nutrition, bicycles, wheels, apparel, and more.
Interested race participants are encouraged to register early as space is limited. To register online, or for more information, including photos and accolades from last year’s race, visit: www.sandiegotriathlonclassic.com.
From the Sydney Morning Herald
Triathlete Belinda Granger has won her 12th Ironman-distance race, taking out Ironman Malaysia for the third-straight year.
Granger dominated the race, taking the lead on the bike and winning by more than 12 minutes.
She finished in nine hours 23 minutes and 33 seconds, well clear of the 9:35:02 from Italian Edith Niederfriniger.
It was a good day for the Sydney-based Grangers, with Belinda’s husband Justin finishing fourth in the men’s race and the first Australian male across the line.
The win represents an impressive return to form for Granger, who needed major surgery last year to repair an artery in her leg.
She is a regular top-10 finisher at the Hawaiian Ironman world championships but had to pull out during that race last October because of illness.
“It was definitely my intention to come back here and get three in a row,” Granger told the Ironman website.
“Now I can tick that off my list – the No.1 goal was to get to the finish line after being sick in Hawaii.”
Belgian Marino Vanhoenacker smashed the men’s field to win by more than 28 minutes, clocking 8:22:31, while Granger finished 9:01:08.
The race was held in hot, humid conditions and was the standard Ironman triathlon distances of a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km marathon run.
From BBC Sport
Britain’s triathlon world champion Alistair Brownlee will miss the start of the season with a stress fracture.
The injury to his femur will keep the Yorkshire 21-year-old out of the first two rounds of the World Championship Series in Sydney and Seoul.
Brownlee hopes to return in time for the third race in Madrid on 5 June.
“Getting the best out of myself means pushing myself to the edge of my limits. Sometimes you cross the line and injury is inevitable,” he said.
“While the worst part is not being able to do what I love every day, I am pleased with my rehab to date.
“My primary focus is to get fit and healthy.”
Brownlee, a former junior and under-23 world champion, clinched the 2009 World Championship Series with victory on Australia’s Gold Coast in September.
Missing two of the six rounds in this year’s championship will dent his hopes of retaining the crown, although Brownlee will be able to pick up points at smaller World Cup events.
The Leeds star is seen as one of Britain’s best medal prospects for the London 2012 Olympics.
From Xtri.com
VALENCIA, CA (BRAIN)—H3 Publications has decided to sit on the sidelines right now and not publish Tri magazine as they intended to originally do in May.
“I pulled the plug,” said Dave House, owner of H3 Publications. “It just got way too political.”
Tri was to roll out with four issues this year. H3 was going to deliver 30,000 copies to newstands and 30,000 as giveaways at events and such.
House didn’t rule out possibly doing the magazine sometime in the future.
—Jason Norman
Massive congratulations to Crowie for his repeat win at the Australian Long Course Championship!!! Here is a quick video of Crowie post race:
NORTH BEACH, Md., Feb. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The Tri-Forces Triathlon (www.triforcestriathlon.org) launched its new website today, bringing to the public its vision to support Veterans, Service Members and their families.
Co-founded by Charles Eggleston, US Army (Ret.) OIF wounded warrior and Elizabeth N. Lawton, US Navy (Ret.), the Tri-Forces Triathlon will be an eco-friendly event serving to raise visibility for non-profit organizations which support uniformed personnel and their families. By focusing on two of our Nation’s top priorities — Our Warriors and Our Environment — the intention is to ignite and sustain a consciousness of the eternal connections between the mutual well-being of our people and our planet.
In its inaugural year, the Tri-Forces Team has set its sights on raising awareness and funding for organizations engaging in progressive and proven holistic integrative medical solutions toward healing Post Traumatic Stress (PTS) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Mr. Eggleston, Chairman and President, commented that he trusts this event will raise awareness for the stigmas surrounding PTS and TBI, “I have seen how these ‘invisible wounds’ of war can tear apart the soldier and the family. I have experienced it first-hand.” Ms. Lawton adds, “Our goal here is to bring a comprehensive awareness to the concerns surrounding PTS and TBI as an imperative to explore all avenues of healing available through all modalities of care. I am very excited to be a part of something that will definitely make a difference — for our troops and for our communities.”
The first Tri-Forces Triathlon will be hosted by the Town of North Beach, in Calvert County, Maryland on June 19th, 2010. The Town has embraced this effort in collaboration with its own Well-Weekend and Fitness Exposition to be held on June 19th and 20th. This is one of the many exciting events Mayor Michael Bojokles has planned as The Town celebrates its 100th year as a municipality.
About the Tri-Forces Triathlon:
Tri-Forces Triathlon’s purpose is to raise awareness, visibility and funding benefiting non-profit organizations which provide specific assistance to those service members and their families who made personal sacrifices in defense of our country – at home and abroad; by land, air or sea.
SOURCE Tri-Forces Triathlon
RELATED LINKS
http://www.triforcestriathlon.com
Oakland, CA. – Hydrapak is proud to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, Hydrapak.com, illustrating a revamped brand image that reflects the recent accolades bestowed on its 2010 product range. Focusing on its innovative technologies with multimedia tools and interactive social media integration, the site provides improved marketing support for the Hydrapak brand and further strengthens its position as a technology leader in the hydration category.
“The new site brings our brand to life,” comments Matt Patterson, Director of Sales at Hydrapak. “It brings forward our stellar electric personality and gives our friends and fans an insider’s glimpse into the world of Hydrapak that wasn’t showcased before. This redesign of the website makes buying direct easy, and communicating with our customers fast and fun.”
The site accentuates Hydrapak’s innovative spirit and heritage in cycling, running and outdoor sports. New product shots, action images and videos showcase gear and technology found only in the world of Hydrapak. The site’s three main technology pages illustrate exclusive Hydrapak innovations in its pack, reservoir and water bottle lines, including the genius Gel-Bot. Purchasing directly from the site has also been enhanced with current reviews by media and employee insight. All of this comes together revealing the company’s personality and design philosophy making the site more robust and relevant.
Also featured on the site are videos, bios and images of the growing list of professional athletes joining the Hydrapak family. Highlights of the Hydrapak athlete team coverage include the riveting drama and psychology involved in 24-hour cycling from the eyes of champion racer Josh Tostado. A blog and up-to-date events page direct consumers to Hydrapak athlete races, clinics and happenings. Website viewers can also find additional information on Hydrapak manufacturing partners that have joined the innovation movement.
The new web design was created by Cubicle Ninjas, a Chicago design firm with a mantra of “design for the masses.” Having worked with brands such as FedEx/Kinkos, American Express, and IBM, Cubicle Ninjas welcomed the opportunity to ensure Hydrapak.com “exuded a style and character it deserves.” They have produced a website that is both functionally intuitive and emotionally impactful that will better represent the depth of the brand.
Hydrapak is a leading global supplier of active lifestyle hydration equipment. With deep roots in cycling culture, Hydrapak produces a lineup of custom-built hydration backpacks, reservoirs, and bottles for a variety of sports, including biking, hiking and running. Hydrapak components are also found on top manufacturers specializing in consumer, commercial and military purposes. Brought to life in 1996 and located in Oakland, CA, Hydrapak products can be found in major retailers and sport specialty stores throughout the world. More information can be found at www.hydrapak.com or by calling 510.632.8318.
Life Time Fitness has set a world record for the largest static cycling class in history, recognized by the Guinness World Records. It was recognized for its “Ride of a Lifetime” stationary cycle ride that went on for two hours despite the 20-43 degree weather. Life Time’s chairman, chief executive officer and president Bahram Akradi and the company’s DJ Roberto Costa, lead the class of more than 600 participants in the largest static cycling class to secure their spot in the records. The class was held at the Houstin CityCentre. The company previously held the record for its 418 strong class on March 23, 2009 at the Life Time Fitness center in Plano, Texas. The record was broken on September 18, 2009 by a 450 cyclist strong class in Galway, Ireland.
Life Time Fitness, Inc. operates multi-use sports and athletic, professional fitness, family recreation and resort and spa centers under the LIFE TIME FITNESS brand. It designs, develops and operates its own centers. As of February 27, 2009, the Company operated 83 centers primarily in suburban locations in 18 states and 22 major markets. Most Life Time Fitness centers offer access around-the-clock, seven days a week to a selection of premium amenities and services, including more than 400 pieces of cardiovascular and resistance equipment and free-weights. Amenities generally include multiple group fitness studios with free classes, a team of certified personal trainers and programming, educational seminars and fitness assessments, a selection of adult and youth programs and activities, athletic events, cycle theatres, rock climbing walls, multiple basketball courts, squash and/or racquetball courts, Pilates and yoga studios, and dry saunas, among others.
USA Triathlon February 14, 2010
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — USA Triathlon inducted five of multisport’s most influential persons into its Hall of Fame on Saturday in a memorable banquet at The Broadmoor resort.
Nearly 200 family members, friends, coaches, race directors and USAT staff came out to honor inductees Jim Curl, Carl Thomas, Barb Lindquist, Valerie Silk and Paula Newby-Fraser as they shared stories, laughs and their love of triathlon.
The expansion of triathlon from its Southern California roots in the early 1980s to its position today as one nation’s fastest-growing sports was evident in the remarks of each inductee.
Following dinner, the “Jim Curl Show” kicked off the program, as Curl and Thomas reflected on their days as two of the most influential race directors triathlon has even seen.
“It’s a great honor. It scares the heck out of you, because you’ve gotta get up and give a speech in front of 200 people in the industry, of which 40 of them are the most important people around for the last 30 years,” said Curl, who also introduced Thomas just minutes after his own induction speech.
“There were people in that room that I knew 25 years ago, people that started things as great as anything that’s been started. So I was tense, I was honored. The strongest feeling was gratitude and the ability to be with all these people again, which doesn’t happen very often.”
Lindquist, who was introduced by her husband, coach and manager, Loren, was quick to credit all her successes, which included a trip to the 2004 Olympic Games, to the people she worked with throughout her career.
Currently USAT’s collegiate recruitment coordinator, Lindquist said her “passion was still afire” for triathlon despite ending her competitive days to raise her young twin sons.
Silk was unable to attend the ceremony, but Mike Reilly shared her heartfelt comments and offered words of congratulations to each her fellow inductees.
Newby-Fraser “changed the perceptions of what a female athlete can accomplish,” according to Bob Babbitt, who introduced the eight-time Ironman champion. She encouraged triathlon’s “new faces to keep pushing the sport forward.”
“It’s huge. It’s hard to put into words, just because I’ve had – and still have – such a long and varied experience with triathlon and USAT … This is the culmination of a lot of different things, so it’s extremely special,” Newby-Fraser said after the ceremony.
The inductees began their memorable day Saturday at an intimate luncheon at The Broadmoor’s Donald Ross Room. This event gave some of the biggest names in triathlon an opportunity to reminisce about the early days of the sport and tell a few tall tales before the evening’s formal ceremony.
With USAT’s Art & Science Symposium and Race Director Symposium also in full swing, the day got off to a running start long before the Hall of Fame activities.
After scores of brave runners ventured out for the 6:30 a.m. start of The Broadmoor Classic Fun Run/Walk, famed adventurer Erik Weihenmayer, who was the first blind man to reach the summit of Mount Everest and went on to reach the highest point of each of the seven continents, opened day two of the symposium with an inspirational talk.
“When we change our thinking and approach to life, we can climb to new heights,” says Weihenmayer, who enthralled the crowd with photos and videos from his varied expeditions and spread his message about reaching for summits as tangible goals.
Following Weihenmayer’s talk, he took time to sign copies of his book, “Touch the Top of the World,” and the symposium attendees took in wide-ranging presentations for the rest of the morning and afternoon.
First-year race director Patrick McGee of Tampa, Fla., has already seen the benefit of attending USAT’s symposium. “It’s been great. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it,” he said. “The best part is interacting with all the coaches and different race directors around here, learning from them, sharing knowledge, gaining knowledge and listening to all the great speakers.”
Highlights from each of this weekend’s presentations can be found at the Hall of Fame and Symposium page on usatriathlon.org.
By Bertrand Boucey - Reuters2/15/2010
PARIS (Reuters) – A French judge has issued an international arrest warrant against American rider Floyd Landis for suspected hacking into an anti-doping laboratory computer, French anti-doping agency head Pierre Bordry told Reuters on Monday.
In an interview, Bordy said the judge Thomas Cassuto believed Landis, whose 2006 Tour de France title was stripped after he failed a dope test, wanted to prove the laboratory where his samples were tested was wrong.
“French judge Cassuto from the Tribunal de Grande Instance of Nanterre informed us that he had issued an international arrest warrant on January 28 against Floyd Landis, who tested positive for banned testosterone during the 2006 Tour de France, after our laboratory computer system was hacked,” Bordry said.
“He was summoned by the judge, he didn’t come so he’s now under an international arrest warrant.”
The French anti-doping agency launched legal action against unnamed persons after they found their laboratory computer system had been hacked into in September 2006.
Landis, the first rider to be stripped of a Tour victory, has continually denied any wrongdoing but the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) has rejected his assertion that his positive test was due to procedural mistakes by the laboratory.
Landis, 34, said last year after his two-year ban ended that he was trying to decide whether to follow fellow-American Lance Armstrong’s example and ride again in the Tour de France.
“It seems that (Landis) made all he could to enter into our computer system to try to prove the laboratory was wrong. He showed many documents he got by hacking to numerous sporting instances,” Bordry said. “The judge traced a network of hackers back to the ringleader.”
EIDSVOLL, Norway—Gunnison, Colo., product Rebecca Dussault became the first-ever non-European athlete to capture gold at the ITU Winter Triathlon World Championships Saturday when she outdistanced the women s elite field by nearly two minutes.
Dussault, who took bronze at last year s world championships, led from the start of the race and clocked a time of 1:19:47 in the run-bike-cross country ski event, bettering silver medalist Tatiana Charochkina of Russia and bronze medalist Hanne Tronnes of Norway.
I was really happy with today, as I’ve come over a couple of times and seemed to be plagued with bad luck, said Dussault after the race. Last week I had a flat tire, and last year at world championships I had a problem with my skis, but today I put I put it all together and I finally have the win. It’s wonderful.
Team USA s Emma Garrard (Park City, Utah) joined Dussault in the top 10 with a seventh-place finish in 1:24:47, and Heather Best (Fairbanks, Alaska) took 13th in 1:28:05.
On the men s side, Brian Smith (Gunnison, Colo.) placed 12th for the U.S. with a time of 1:14:14.
The American duo of Dussault and Garrard carried a 25-second lead into the first transition. Garrard had to overcome a flat tire on the second bike lap to post her seventh-place finish, but Dussault built a 50-meter lead heading into transition two.
Dussault extended her lead to a minute with a quick transition, and the American, who represented the U.S. at the 2006 Winter Olympics in cross country skiing, and narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games, entered the final leg in confident form.
Dussault, who was the first non-European winner in the event s 14-year history, had won back-to-back U.S. national titles entering Saturday s race.
Full Coverage from ITU
http://www.triathlon.org/news/article/2010_winter_triathlon_world_championships/
Felt has partnered with Garmin on an exclusive new promotion. A limited edition Felt AR5 model—unavailable until now and available only through this promo—will be offered as a special package that includes the new Garmin Edge 500 GPS-based cycling computer at no additional price. Felt and Garmin are both key sponsors of the Garmin-Transitions ProTour road racing team. “We came up with this idea of a limited edition bike to help Garmin launch the Edge 500,” said Felt National Sales Director John Georger. “We wanted to showcase our Aero Road frame design and match it up with the hottest new technology from Garmin.”
Featuring an aerodynamic High Modulus carbon fiber frameset, a Shimano 105 drivetrain and a deluxe package of Felt parts including the Aero R4 wheelset, the AR5 has an MSRP of $2999.
The Edge 500 is Garmin’s newest lightweight GPS-based cycling computer. In addition to all the standard cycling computer features, it allows riders to track elevation changes and provides access to the online service Garmin Connect, where riders can review and share GPS data. The base version retails for $249, but the special upgrade version included in this promo also features cadence and a heart-rate monitor, and retails for $349.
As part of the promo, Felt is offering reduced-rate consumer financing for 6 or 12 months.
For more information, or to inquire about availability, please visit your local Felt retailer.
The first stage of the fifth annual Amgen Tour of California pro cycling race on May 16 will wind through Nevada City, Grass Valley, Auburn, Cool and El Dorado Hills before finishing in Sacramento.
A map released on the tour’s web site — www.amgentourofcalifornia.com — Tuesday details the 104.2-mile route, set to begin in Nevada City at 11:45 a.m. and finish in downtown Sacramento around 3:30-4 p.m.
The course starts at Broad and Pine Streets in Nevada City, enters Grass Valley and then follows Rattlesnake Road, Dog Bar Road and Placer Hills Road before passing through Meadow Vista and Auburn.
After crossing the Foresthill Bridge, the course goes through Cool, follows Highway 49 to Salmon Falls Road, turns onto Green Valley Road and passes through El Dorado Hills.
The route follows Silva Valley Parkway to Grant Line Road, then follows Highway 16 (Jackson Road) to Folsom Boulevard, Capitol Avenue, 26th Street and L Street before a three-lap circuit through midtown and downtown to the finish at 11th and L Streets.
Top riders who have committed to the race include seven-time Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong and three-time Amgen winner Levi Leipheimer.
NEW YORK — Reigning ING New York City Marathon champion Meb Keflezighi of the United States will return to the scene of his finest triumph to compete in the first spring running of the NYC Half-Marathon on Sunday, March 21. Keflezighi will be running in his first competitive race since his win in New York last November.
Joining Keflezighi will be a trio of outstanding compatriots including three-time Olympian Abdi Abdirahman, two-time Olympic steeplechaser Anthony Famiglietti, and former NCAA cross country champion Josh Rohatinsky. All men will join the previously announced long distance legend, marathon world record-holder, and 2007 NYC Half-Marathon champion Haile Gebrselassie of Ethiopia.
“Meb’s victory in New York last November was one of the shining moments in the storied history of our race and sport,” Wittenberg said. “Meb and the American athletes are stronger than ever. Each will be looking to take on Haile and the others in what promises to be a spectacular run through the city streets.”
Keflezighi, 34, of San Diego, CA, made history in 2009, becoming the first American male to win the ING New York City Marathon since Alberto Salazar’s victory in 1982. His winning time of 2 hours, 9 minutes, and 15 seconds was a personal best. The win was the pinnacle of his already illustrious career, which includes a silver medal at the 2004 Olympic marathon and a second-place finish at the ING New York City Marathon 2004. A three-time national 10,000-meter champion (2000, 2002, 2004), Keflezighi holds the American record at that distance (27:13.98) and has won 20 USA titles during his career.
“Coming back to race in New York after the victory in the ING New York City Marathon will be very special for me and my supporters,” said Keflezighi, who will also be one of the leading contenders at the Boston Marathon in April. “I was a part of the inaugural NYC Half-Marathon in 2006 and I am delighted to be competing in the new spring edition.”
The 2007 NYC Half-Marathon runner-up, Abdirahman, 33, of Tucson, AZ, will return to New York after finishing ninth in the 2009 ING New York City Marathon in November. A four-time USA champion at 10,000 meters, Abdirahman will be making his fourth appearance in the NYC Half-Marathon after finishing third in his half-marathon debut in 2006, second in 2007 to Gebrselassie, and fourth in 2009.
New York native Famiglietti, 31, of Knoxville, TN, will be making his half-marathon debut in New York. A two-time Olympic steeplechaser and 2009 USA 15K Championship winner, Famiglietti returns to New York after his 12th-place finish in the Healthy Kidney 10K in 2009.
Rohatinsky, 27, of Portland, OR, will be making his NYC Half-Marathon debut. The 2006 NCAA cross country champion, Rohatinsky was ninth at the 2008 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials and finished seventh overall in the ING New York City Marathon 2008 in a personal best time of 2:14:23.
Previously announced, the NYC Half-Marathon will offer the largest half-marathon prize purse in the United States: $100,000. The men’s and women’s champions will each earn $20,000, the largest first-prize checks for a non-marathon race in the country.
The NYC Half-Marathon continues to attract leading professional athletes and recreational runners from around the world. In 2009, more than 19,000 people applied to run the race, and more than 10,000 finished.
On a course designed to celebrate New York City, the NYC Half-Marathon will take runners on a loop through Central Park, down Seventh Avenue through Times Square, across 42nd Street, and along the expansive West Side Highway to Battery Park in the heart of the city’s financial district, finishing with a view of the Statue of Liberty.
Courtesy of New York Road Runners
In 2009, The Fresh Air Fund’s Volunteer Host Family program, called Friendly Town, gave close to 5,000 New York City boys and girls, ages six to 18, free summer experiences in the country and the suburbs. Volunteer host families shared their friendship and homes up to two weeks or more in 13 Northeastern states from Virginia to Maine and Canada.
The Fresh Air Fund relies on donations to provide memorable summers to NYC children.
The Fresh Air Fund needs hosts for the summer of 2010.
More than 65% of all Fresh Air children are reinvited to stay with their host family, year after year.
Thanks to host families who open up their homes for a few weeks each summer, children growing up in New York City’s toughest neighborhoods have experienced the joys of Fresh Air experiences.
“It is rewarding to see the smile on our Fresh Air child’s face as she enjoys the simple things we take for granted…”
Friendly Town host families are volunteers who live in the suburbs or small town communities. Host families range in size, ethnicity and background, but share the desire to open their hearts and homes to give city children an experience they will never forget. Hosts say the Fresh Air experience is as enriching for their own families, as it is for the inner-city children. There are no financial requirements for hosting a child. Volunteers may request the age-group and gender of the Fresh Air youngster they would like to host. Stories about real Fresh Air host families and their New York City visitors are just a click away!
Click here to learn more about becoming a host or call (800) 367-0003!
SEMINOLE, Fla. (MMD Newswire) February 10, 2010 — From Broken Neck to Broken Records: A Masters Cyclist’s Guide to Winning by authors Rose Marie Ray and Sandy Scott follows a masters cyclist’s journey after breaking his C1 vertebra which is a rare and nearly always fatal break. The book focuses on determination and a “can do” attitude towards athletics, illustrating the authors’ belief that anyone can be a winner if they want it badly enough and work hard enough to achieve their goals.
From Broken Neck to Broken Records provides an in-depth look at Scott, an outstanding cyclist, and the mental and physical strength it took to go from a near death experience to winning 11 gold medals, and breaking records in time trials and road race competitions. These accomplishments were achieved 13 months after being told by a spinal surgeon that he would never ride a bike again.
In From Broken Neck to Broken Records, the authors tell the story of how Scott overcame his life-threatening injury through hard work and perseverance. Ray and Scott also explain how Sandy went from spending five months in a hard neck brace to moving on with his life, by getting back on his bike.
From Broken Neck to Broken Records also includes a “How to Win” section, meant to inspire and instruct athletes. This is a guide for masters cyclists over 35 years of age and other athletes of all ages. It includes motivational coaching and helpful information on how to win races and break records. Written to be both practical and easy-to-read, this guide explores everything from buying your bike, setting and achieving goals, training, bike maintenance, racing, and ultimately winning gold medals.
From Broken Neck to Broken Records: A Masters Cyclist’s Guide to Winning is available for sale online at Amazon.com and other channels.
AGOURA HILLS, Calif., Feb. 10 /PRNewswire/ — Merrell® and Michael Epstein Sports Productions, Inc. (MESP) are proud to announce a multi-year partnership of Merrell as title sponsor of the Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series. As title sponsor, Merrell has exclusive rights to apparel and footwear for the national series.
MESP, a leader in lifestyle sports marketing is thrilled to partner with Merrell on this exciting venture. “Merrell is a perfect fit for the Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series,” said Michael Epstein, President of MESP, Inc. “They are a leader in outdoor performance apparel and footwear and understand the needs of our athletes. We are ecstatic to be teaming up with them on this fun and unique event!”
Merrell, who has been providing high-performance footwear and apparel to outdoor enthusiasts for the past 26 years, echoes the sentiment, “At Merrell, we encourage everyone to get outside and get moving,” says Rachael Martinelli, Marketing Specialist for Merrell. “People inspire the products that we make and Down & Dirty provides the perfect vehicle for everyone from beginners to the elite athlete to get active. We are excited to be a part of it!”
The inaugural year of the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series will take the running world by storm calling all recruits to challenge themselves to one of the most exciting off-road races to hit the muddy trails! Racers will compete on either a 5k or 10k course that includes military-style obstacles, commanding cargo climbs, wild water crossings and above all: mud, mud, and more mud, all while supporting our troops!
The premiere season of the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series will hit the muddy trails of Castaic Lake State Recreation Area in Los Angeles, California on April 25th before continuing its trek cross-country to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on July 18th, New York, NY on October 3rd and wrapping up the tour in Sacramento, California on October 31st.
For more information on the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series and to register for the event, visit www.downanddirtymudrun.com.
From the Trigger Point website
We are excited to announce that we have officially inked a deal with Craig Alexander, world champion triathlete! He’s been a longtime user of our products and is now going to reach out to the public and let everyone know the benefits of self massage with Trigger Point Performance Products!
Cassidy Phillips and Craig Alexander met in 2004 at the Olympic Trials in Bellingham, Washington. At the time, Alexander was pretty banged up and needed a way to take care of himself. Phillips gave Alexander some biomechanical education and taught him how to use our products, after which Alexander was empowered to care for himself through self massage using Trigger Point Therapy tools. The reality was that Alexander didn’t have the funds to get body work every day, so our products allowed him to care for himself on a daily basis, thus providing both empowerment and performance enhancement.
Alexander began to use Trigger Point Performance tools for self massage and injury prevention, twice a day every day, and he went on to have one of the best race seasons ever in 2004. Today, after being the Ironman World Champion 2 years in a row, Alexander has the resources for body work on a daily basis, but he can still care for himself using Trigger Point products when he’s on the road and when he can’t make it to his therapist.
Boulder, CO— TRAKKERS, The world’s first real-time GPS racing device, announces the inception of its Elite and Age Group Triathlon Team for the 2010 season.
“It is with great pleasure that I present the brand new Trakkers Triathlon Team,” says Trakkers head honcho, Charlie Patten. “In order to enhance the way family and friends track their athletes on race day, we created the Trakkers GPS devices. And in order to better promote the product we have created, we are now establishing a top-notch team of individuals racing in the Trakkers colors.”
To coincide with the highly anticipated spring release of the Trakkers athlete-tracking device, a group of world-class professionals has been assembled. The 2010 pro roster is as follows:
Richie Cunningham: 2x 70.3 Champion; 3x Top-Five at 70.3 World Championships
Dede Griesbsauer: 2x Ironman Champion; 3x Top-Ten Ironman World Champs
Mary Beth Ellis: 2009 Escape from Alcatraz Champion; 2x 2nd place at 70.3 World Champs
Amanda Lovato: 2010 Pucón 70.3 Champion; Multiple Half Ironman Champion
Michael Lovato: 2x Ironman Champion; 3x Top-Ten Kona; 3x National Champion
Brian Fleischmann: 1st World Team Champs; 2x 2nd place at USAT National Champs
Jacqui Gordon: Multiple Ironman and 70.3 Top-Ten finisher
Carole Sharpless: 2006 IM Florida 2nd place; 2007, broken back; 2010, comeback year.
To complement the Elite Team, a squad of 36 Age Group athletes is also on board for 2010. Headlining the amateurs is Kathleen Calkins, the top AG athlete at the 2009 Hawaii Ironman World Championships. Additionally, the Trakkers Team is broadly represented in the tri ranks, from the pointy end of the races proudly to the back of the pack.
Partnering with this unique and cutting edge Team, are three triathlon industry powerhouses: Saucony shoes and apparel, First Endurance nutrition, and Kestrel bicycles.
Robert Kunz from First Endurance stated: “This is a perfect partnership for us, not only because of the high caliber of athletes, but also because of the management and philosophy of the team.”
Carrie Bartlett of Saucony added: “This partnership allows Saucony the opportunity to connect with more triathletes and build the Saucony brand within the sport. We are excited to be the official footwear and apparel of the team in 2010.”
Steven Harad of Kestrel commented, “I look forward to a successful season; to have the entire team riding Kestrels and providing feedback will help us continue to grow.”
Team member Michael Lovato added, “I’m so proud to be a part of this innovative team. What really makes the Trakkers Team unique is that our partners are three of the strongest players within our industry. For decades Saucony has been a loyal sponsor of triathlon, and over the years they have remained committed to creating the best running shoes around. Kestrel has such a rich history within our sport as well: it introduced triathletes to carbon fiber bikes, and it is returning to the forefront of the bicycle world with its cutting edge developments. And in First Endurance, we have aligned with a company who cares first and foremost about creating clean, safe and effective nutritional products that work for elites as well as beginners. While each sponsor is very powerful independently, under the banner of a bold company like Trakkers, our team has the ability to truly set trends and change the way we participate in and view our sport.”
The 2010 season started out with a victory for the Trakkers Team, with Amanda Lovato’s win at Ironman 70.3 Pucón on January 24th. The Elite Team continues its racing next at the Miami International Triathlon on March 14th, where Richie Cunningham, Mary Beth Ellis, and Brian Fleischmann will be competing.
Keep up with the progress of the pro squad by tuning into www.twitter.com/TrakkersElite, and checking www.trakkersgps.com for regular BLOG updates.
Feb 09, 2010 – IMG today, in partnership with Sky, Fáilte Ireland, Shannon Development, the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, Clare County Council, announced details of the country’s first closed road cycle event.
The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia will take place over an 80-mile (approx) course in scenic County Clare on Sunday, August 22nd 2010.
The event organisers expect to attract 2000 entrants from throughout Ireland and abroad this year, bringing significant economic benefit into the local economy, with numbers increasing considerably over the next five years. The mass participation event, which is being marketed internationally and nationally, is open to all standards of cyclists, aged 18-80. The cycle will start and finish in Ennis and travel through County Clare, taking in part of West Clare’s spectacular coastline.
Sky, the UK and Ireland’s leading entertainment company behind the Sky Ride series of events, is the title sponsor of The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia. The sponsorship supports Sky’s aim to encourage one million more people of all ages and abilities to get cycling by 2013. Sky Ride consists of a range of initiatives to get people back on their bikes, with activities like mass city cycling events on traffic-free streets through to local group rides.
As well as Sky Ride Etape Hibernia, IMG have extensive experience organising mass participation events including the internationally renowned events the Macmillan Cancer Support Etape Caledonia, Tour de Suisse, Melbourne Marathon, The London Triathlon, Triathlon de Alpe d’Huez and UK Challenge
Speaking at today’s event launch in Spanish Point, County Clare, Jo Dytch of IMG said: “The popularity and growth in road cycling is very exciting. Along with our partners we are looking to lead the way in providing a prestige event for cycling in Ireland and to establish a major fixture on the Irish sporting calendar delivering a significant boost to the local economy. This event will bring a welcome boost to the tourism in Clare annually and will see the most scenic parts of the County and its coastline exposed to the world’s cycling enthusiasts and media.”
Ms. Dytch continued: “Sky Ride Etape Hibernia is Ireland’s first closed road cycle event and is open to the general public. It affords cyclists with the unique opportunity to cycle safely on closed roads, whilst rising to the physical challenge at the same time. We expect to draw enthusiasts, the health conscious, challenge-seekers, charity fund-raisers and lapsed cyclists. For the inaugural Etape Hibernia, we hope to attract as many as 2000 entrants and plan to grow this number considerably by 2014. IMG are grateful for the support of the title sponsor Sky, and regional sponsors Fáilte Ireland, Shannon Development, Clare County Council, and the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau, without whom staging this event in Ireland would not be possible and we look forward to making it a legacy event for the region”.
Mark Deering, Director, Sky Ireland said, “We are proud to be the main sponsor for the Sky Ride Etape Hibernia. Our Sky Ride initiatives last year encouraged thousands of people to get on their bikes. We hope, through events and sponsorships such as this, that 2010 will provide more opportunities and inspiration for people to get cycling.”
Speaking about today’s announcement Keith McCormack, Fáilte Ireland’s Head of Business and Sports Tourism, emphasised: “As a national tourism authority, we are glad to be ‘in the saddle’ for the Sky Ride Etape Hibernia. This event is a perfect fit for Fáilte Ireland’s sports strategy and our commitment to promoting all of Ireland’s regions as tourism destinations. This event allows us to harness the growing popularity of cycling to the natural charms and allure of County Clare and the Mid West. As well as bringing visitors and revenue to the area, the event will provide an excellent opportunity to showcase the Shannon Region as both a cycling destination, in particular, and a tourism ‘must see’ in general.”
Welcoming the event John King, Assistant Chief Executive of Shannon Development said, “Shannon Development, along with its partners, is delighted to have helped secure this very prestigious event for the Shannon Region for the next five years. Winning this event helps us build on our campaign to promote the Region’s growing reputation as a leading sports and events destination. Etape Hibernia is one of a number of international events we are working on this year to bring additional visitors to the Shannon Region which have the potential to generate 10 million euro in new revenue for the Region. This new cycling event complements our strategy to secure more mass participation events, in particular sports events, which can be firmly rooted in the Shannon Region for many years to come.”
Mr. King noted that the Lonely Planet ‘Best in Travel 2010’ guide’s inclusion of Clare in its top 10 list of ‘Super Cycling Routes in the World’ was a great endorsement of the County’s cycling product. “This endorsement is a testament to the amount of work that has gone into the development of the tourism cycling product in Clare in recent times. We look forward to working with IMG and our partners to ensure the success of this event in terms of delivering additional visitors and revenue”, concluded Mr. King.
Karen Brosnahan of the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau noted: “Sports Tourism generates approximately 60 million euro for the Shannon Region annually. We, along with Shannon Development and Failte Ireland, have recently launched a Sports Ambassador Programme to capitalise on this lucrative market even further by getting local people involved in sport to help bid for events like Etape Hibernia that can become legacy events for the entire Shannon Region.”
Mayor of Clare Councillor Tony Mulcahy said the economic and tourist benefits associated with the event for County Clare and the wider region were significant. “I have no doubt that the people of Clare will support the event by joining Clare County Council in welcoming thousands of cyclists to the County, which will allow us to showcase all we have to offer. I especially welcome IMG’s commitment to working with local people to maximise the economic return of the event for all local people”, stated Mayor Mulcahy.
The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia was launched today at an event in The Armada Hotel, Spanish Point, Co Clare, which was attended by media outlets from throughout Ireland the United Kingdom. A number of attending journalists also took part in an arranged cycle of a 10-mile stretch of the proposed event route.
Details of The Sky Ride Etape Hibernia are available from www.etapehibernia.com or info@etapehibernia.com.
Toronto, Ontario (February 8, 2010). Nineteen wetsuits is pleased to announce that they have formalized a deal for distribution of the Nineteen wetsuit line in the U.K, with Multisport Distribution. Multisport Distribution will handle all sales and marketing in the U.K, for the Toronto, Canada, based Nineteen. The distribution deal is effective immediately, and will kick-off in grand fashion this weekend (Feb. 13 & 14), at the annual TCR Show at Sandown Park, UK – the biggest triathlon and multisport show in England.
According to Nineteen’s Sales & Marketing Manager, Steve Fleck, working with Multisport Distribution is a great fit: “We are very keen to get things going in the U.K with the folks at Multisport Distribution. They are very professional; know the UK triathlon market well, and have a stable of high quality and well known brands that we are very happy to be part of.”
Fleck concludes, “It’s the perfect fit for us, and fit is everything for Nineteen!”
Multisport Distribution for their part but have made a name for themselves already, by being the exclusive and successful distributors in the U.K. for high profile brands such as Blue Competition Cycles and Fusion Apparel.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to bring Nineteen Wetsuits to the UK. Nineteen share the same ethos as our other brands with their focus on using only the highest quality materials combined with an attention to design-detail that ensures a market leading product”, says Multisport Distribution principal, Vivion Cox.
Cox goes on to add, “We feel the products stand out due to their fit and functionality and by the fact that all wetsuits throughout the range come with the market’s only 5 year warranty. We are excited by the opportunity to replicate Nineteen’s North American success here in the UK.”
February 8, 2010 (FPRC) — Stradalli Cycle, the high performance carbon bicycle manufacturer, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a partnership with HED Cycling to use HED’s wheel designs and technology on their 2010 Milano Strada-PRO carbon road bikes.
The fruit of this partnership is the HED 4 Stradalli 60mm or 90mm front and 90mm rear full carbon clincher wheel set. The front wheel has 18 spokes and weighs an incredible 774g, while the rear wheel uses 24 spokes and weighs just 1025g. The wheels, which are made for 23mm tires, are natural carbon fiber black with white and red lettering.
HED Cycling, which has over twenty years of manufacturing experience in making aerodynamically efficient wheels, designs and manufactures sixteen different models of composite wheels, exported worldwide and used in events from the Tour de France to the Hawaii Ironman to the prestigious North Oaks triathlon championship. Every single wheel HED wheel, including the new HED 4 Stradalli wheel, is handmade.
“We are very proud to have an exclusive model of wheels designed specifically for our bike by such a reputable wheel maker as HED” said Thomas Steinbacher, CEO Stradalli Cycle. “The quality of the Milano Strada-PRO road bike demands we make compromises.”
The HED 4 Stradalli wheel set is the perfect solution for the Stradalli’s Milano Strada-PRO carbon road bike. Using ultra-light carbon fiber components its frame weight is just 997g while the fork weight comes in at under 400g. The Milano Strada-PRO is the bike of champions.
About The Stradalli Cycle Company
Based in Florida, Stradalli is an official SRAM OEM and fits SRAM Red or SRAM Force to all of its 2010 bicycles. The Stradalli Cycle Company sells worldwide to the keen athlete who demands the best equipment. With years of experience in both high tech manufacturing and design as well as a passion for cycling, Stradalli brings dedication and innovation to the road racing bicycle market.
Contact
http://www.stradalli.com
sales@stradalli.com
February 08, 2010
EDMONTON–A freak accident on an island off of the coast of Africa has cost an Edmonton triathlon athlete her life.
Laura MacKay lost control of the bicycle she was riding Thursday on the Canary Islands and crashed into a rock face.
The 37-year-old was training alongside her husband, who works as an Edmonton police officer.”It’s not just the loss of a person, (she was) a special person,” said Bert MacKay, father of the Ironman racer.
MacKay headed to the islands two weeks ago for a bit of training, some relaxation and to celebrate her birthday.
She crashed after losing control of her bike on a winding mountain road that was lined by a wall of rock on one side. MacKay died before she could be reached by paramedics, who had to fly in because a rainstorm washed mudslides onto the road.
She died the day after her birthday.
Laura MacKay participated in as many as nine Ironman competitions, said her father. Competitors swim about four kilometres, bike 180 km, then run a marathon.
Based on all that experience, she always wore safety gear while riding, her father said. He remembered Laura for her gentle personality.
“She was most unique because she was non-judgmental. If you met her in a room, in five minutes you’d be impressed.”
Laura worked as a counsellor at the Strathcona County Health Centre’s mental health unit in Sherwood Park, Alta. Her husband, Travis Eltom, was to arrive home Sunday with his wife’s ashes.
Craig Alexander has won the Geelong Ironman 70.3 for the second year running. Clayton Fettell exited the swim in first place closely followed by Michael Murphy, Paul Ambrose and Jan Rehula. The swim proved to be slower than the 2009 Geelong 70.3 swim leg with all swimmers approximately 1-2 minutes slower out of the water.
Leon Griffin finished in second place 1:20 behind Alexander with the run proving to be the deciding factor. Alexander set a blinding pace to finish the run in 1:11:57. A further two minutes back were Tim Berkel, Peter Schokman and Clayton Fettell. After posting the fastest swim and second fastest bike leg of the day, Fettell was 7:31 behind Alexander on the run.
Peter Schokman put in a stunning race with only 22 seconds in the swim and 3 minutes in the run seperateing him and Alexander.
|
Pos
|
First Name
|
Last Name
|
Gun Time
|
Category
|
Swim
|
Cycle
|
Run
|
|
1
|
Craig
|
ALEXANDER
|
3:53:15
|
0:23:01
|
2:15:39
|
1:11:57
|
|
|
2
|
Leon
|
GRIFFIN
|
3:54:35
|
0:23:13
|
2:15:29
|
1:13:21
|
|
|
3
|
Tim
|
BERKEL
|
3:56:10
|
0:23:24
|
2:15:06
|
1:14:51
|
|
|
4
|
Peter
|
SCHOKMAN
|
3:56:25
|
0:23:23
|
2:15:15
|
1:14:59
|
|
|
5
|
Clayton
|
FETTELL
|
3:56:39
|
0:21:54
|
2:12:37
|
1:19:28
|
|
|
6
|
Matty
|
WHITE
|
4:00:02
|
0:23:26
|
2:15:04
|
1:18:44
|
|
|
7
|
Paul
|
AMBROSE
|
4:00:39
|
0:22:56
|
2:15:39
|
1:19:25
|
|
|
8
|
Jason
|
SHORTIS
|
4:01:12
|
0:25:07
|
2:13:18
|
1:19:42
|
|
|
9
|
Damien
|
ANGUS
|
4:01:51
|
0:25:56
|
2:15:50
|
1:16:53
|
|
|
10
|
Jason
|
CROWTHER
|
4:02:42
|
0:23:28
|
2:15:12
|
1:21:11
|
|
|
11
|
Richard
|
THOMPSON
|
4:03:15
|
0:25:09
|
2:13:18
|
1:21:54
|
|
|
12
|
Adam
|
HOLBOROW
|
4:05:53
|
0:24:53
|
2:13:43
|
1:24:19
|
|
|
13
|
Richard
|
MUNRO
|
4:06:36
|
0:25:08
|
2:13:22
|
1:25:03
|
|
|
14
|
Michael
|
MURPHY
|
4:07:20
|
0:22:54
|
2:15:48
|
1:25:57
|
|
|
15
|
Chris
|
DMITRIEFF
|
4:09:09
|
0:24:43
|
2:18:46
|
1:22:27
|
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — USA Triathlon is pleased to announce the 2009 Accenture Paratriathletes of the Year. Sarah Reinertsen and J.P. Theberge were selected for this honor by USA Triathlon’s Age Group Commission.
Paratriathlete of the Year – Women
Sarah Reinertsen, 34, Mission Viejo, Calif.
Top Performances:
2nd at USAT/Accenture Paratriathlon National Championships (TRI-2)
1st at ITU Triathlon World Championship (TRI-2)
“I am honored to be selected as the 2009 Paratriathlete of the Year, especially amongst such an incredible group of athletes on the team. I have been racing in triathlon for the past six years, and the paratriathlete division has grown tremendously. We have the most competitive field of women to date, so it’s a true delight to receive this distinction.”
Honorable Mention: Robin Caruso (43, Ridgefield, Conn.), Megan Fisher (26, Missoula, Mont.), Ivonne Mosquera (32, New York, N.Y.)
Paratriathlete of the Year – Men
J.P. Theberge, 37, Carlsbad, Calif.
Top Performances:
1st at USAT/Accenture Paratriathlon National Championships (TRI-5)
1st at ITU Triathlon World Championship (TRI-5)
“It is a great honor to be voted Paratriathlete of the Year by USAT. It is a honor to me but also a tribute to the burgeoning paratriathlon movement which is making great strides around the world featuring talented disabled athletes around the U.S. and internationally who work hard to promote and to increase awareness of the movement in countries such as Morocco, Hungary, the UK, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Spain, Austria, New Zealand among the many other countries involved. We all thank you so much for the honor.”
Honorable Mention: Paul Martin (42, Boulder, Colo.), Matt Perkins (35, Boise, Idaho), Aaron Scheidies (27, Seattle, Wash.)
The sponsorship of the 2009 Paratriathlete of the Year Award showcases Accenture’s ongoing commitment to the sport of Paratriathlon. “What we are all about is high performance, so we always look for opportunities to work with others that exemplify that,” said Cathinka Wahlstrom, Accenture’s N.Y. Metro managing director. “We love Paratriathletes because absolutely everyone involved is exhibiting high performance.”
Accenture is committed to helping enhance Paratriathlon competitions and grow the Paratriathlete base. They have sponsored the Accenture USAT Paratriathlon National Championships in New York City for the past four years and will do so again in 2010. “Part of the reason Paratriathlon is now considered an elite sport and is on the verge of Paralympic inclusion is the great support of Cathinka, Justin Model and everyone at Accenture.” said Jon Beeson, co-chair of the USAT Paratriathlon Committee. And there is a real side benefit to its involvement. Along with Accenture’s partnership with the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF), it’s support of high-performing, non-profit organizations like USAT also promotes an environment of healthy living and lifestyles for their employees and clients. Many of them have taken up the sport after helping out as ParaTri handlers at the NYC race.
TAMPA, Fla., Feb. 3, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), owners of the global Ironman Triathlon and 70.3 Event Series, announces its Ironman 70.3 U.S. Pro Championship, an event open to all professional athletes within the sport. For the first time, pros will have the opportunity to earn a coveted title, while competing for a prize purse of $75,000. Houston’s Memorial Hermann Healthcare System, the largest not-for-profit healthcare provider in Texas, will serve as title sponsor and official sports medicine provider for the inaugural event.
“Memorial Hermann and Ironman share a common interest in helping athletes achieve their personal and professional goals. We are looking forward to joining them for this world-class event,” said David Bradshaw, chief marketing officer, Memorial Hermann.
Memorial Hermann Ironman 70.3 Texas, formerly known as Ironman 70.3 Lone Star, will take place on Sunday, April 25, 2010 on historic Galveston Island, along the Texas gulf coast. Moody Gardens Hotel, Spa & Convention Center, situated among 242 lush, tropical acres, will play host to athletes from around the world. The saltwater swim will be in the protected waters of the Offats Bayou, while the bike course will lead athletes on a flat and scenic ride along the coastline. Athletes will also see a flat run course, as it meanders through tropical gardens and towering glass pyramids. A total of 50 slots for the 2010 Foster Grant Ironman World Championship 70.3 will be awarded to top age group and pro finishers.
“Ironman brings together the best athletes in the world, and physicians, trainers and other experts from the Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute will be there throughout the weekend to offer education and provide medical services,” said Walter R. Lowe, M.D. Lowe is co-medical director of the Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute, chief of Orthopedics at Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center and chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at The University of Texas Medical School at Houston.
During the event, the Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine Institute will demonstrate VO2 Max analysis for both running and cycling, as well as gait assessments. Additionally, exercise physiologists, physical therapists, athletic trainers, nutritionists and strength and conditioning experts will be on site to answer questions. Massage therapy and medical care will be provided for participants.
“We are very excited to provide professionals with an enhanced prize purse and the chance to sport the title of Ironman 70.3 U.S. Pro Champion. The launch of this event allows us to further highlight our professional field, offering greater visibility and recognition for these athletes. In addition, the timing is ideal as it provides pros with an event to test their early season fitness among a world-class field,” said Heather Fuhr, WTC’s Pro Athlete Liaison and former Ironman World Champion.
The weekend will also include the Lone Star Sprint and Olympic-distance events on Saturday, April 24. For more information on event weekend, visit www.ironmanlonestar.com. All Ironman-related media inquiries can be directed to Blair LaHaye at Blair@ironman.com or Jessica Weidensall at Jessica@ironman.com. Inquiries about Memorial Hermman can be directed to Alejandra Rodriguez at Alejandra.Rodriguez@memorialhermann.org.
Greg LeMond and Lance Armstrong
For two years now, three time Tour de France winner Greg LeMond and Trek Bicycles have been locked in what has been a public and, at times, a rather bitter battle.
Trek began a licensing partnership in 1995 with LeMond that was terminated on January 30, 2010 thus giving LeMond the rights to the bicycle brand bearing his name. The original dispute began when Trek sued to end their partnership with LeMond after he made comments pointing directly at the brand in relation to doping in the sport of cycling. For his part, LeMond was displeased with Trek due to his belief that Trek was not promoting the LeMond brand.
The settlement comes in the form of two payments of $100,000 by Trek to a charity Lemond is involved with, 1in6.org.
Thanks so much for visiting my site! My name is Brandon Wood and I am an opera singer living and trying to make it in New York City. This site and podcast follow my adventures on the way to competing in and training for all kinds of endurance events, especially triathlon and running. Click the "About Me" tab for more info!
