Geelong will host the world’s top triathletes to the region when the Ironman 70.3 series kicks off here on March 23.
The 18-race series includes events in the US, France, England, Italy and Germany and culminates with the World Championships in Spain in November.
More than 60 of the best male and female triathletes will compete in the event, including Belgian world champion Jelle Geens, who is now based in Australia.
In addition to the pros, more than 1400 age group athletes will take on the 114km event.
Melbourne professional triathlete Grace Thek has raced here for the last seven years, finishing on the podium every time and winning in 2023.
“I love that Geelong is the race opener for the Ironman Pro Series and we can highlight this great race in Australia,” Thek said.
“It was exciting to be part of six of the Pro Series races last year and I love that these races bring great competition. I have no doubt there will be a cracking lineup this year in Geelong.
Thek said for her, Geelong was “the place where it all started” with her first professional race win in 2018.
“There is a sense of nostalgia but also me not wanting to break the streak,” she said.
“I love racing in Australia, and being from Melbourne, this is the closest Ironman 70.3 to home. Given I’m on the road for so much of the year, it is special to race in front of family and friends, and alongside the local tri community.
“The Geelong community is always so welcoming, and it makes for a great weekend away.”
Visit ironman.com/im703-geelong for more information.
