(Tarpon Springs, FL) August 5, 2008 : Today, Ironman announces the addition of a new full-distance event to its 2009 Calendar. An island located within the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, Cozumel will now serve as host of an Ironman event that will take place on November 29, 2009. The event will include 50 qualifying slots for the 2010 Ford Ironman World Championship, taking place on October 9, in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. There will be a professional prize purse of $50,000 (USD) for distribution among the top five male and female finishers.
The 2.4 mile/3.86 km swim will begin at the Chankanaab Park Beach. Athletes will experience a picturesque swim with colorful fish and coral reefs during the two-loop course. The 112 mile/180.2 km bike course, also utilizing Chankanaab Park, will take athletes on roads that surround Cozumel. The 26.2 mile/42.4 km run will encompass the downtown center of Cozumel.
With its beautiful beaches and exotic locale, Cozumel is an ideal destination where athletes and supporters alike can enjoy breathtaking sunsets, a variety of water sports and historical destinations such as Punta Sur Ecological Reserve and the Colombia Lagoon, showcasing native wildlife. Additionally, Cozumel has an international airport with multiple direct connections to the U.S. and Mexico City, plus a first-class hotel infrastructure known for its customer service.
Online registration will open on August 19, 2008 through the official websites, www.ironmanmexico.com and www.ironmancozumel.com. Online registration will also be available through www.active.com.
For more information on Ironman, visit Ironman.com.
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