The Cuban Triathlon Federation has announced the biggest triathlon ever to come to the Antillean islands: Volga Ironman Cuba, to be contested on 10 October 2010, the 142nd anniversary of Cuba's declaration of independence from Spain.
"We are thrilled to welcome much of the world to the beautiful island of Cuba and its historic capital, Havana," stated Jorge Vásquez, head of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) in Havana. "We have a world-class venue that is sure to test the endurance and mental toughness of the long-distance triathlete. Our team is ready to build on the successes we enjoyed in 2004."
Six years ago, Cuba competently hosted the Central American Triathlon Tournament, a final tune-up before the Pan American Games later that year in the Dominican Republic.
The inaugural Volga Ironman Cuba presented by Cerveceria Bucanero will take place in the tropical city of Havana, the cosmopolitan port on the north coast of the island nation. Athletes will begin the race with a 3.8-kilometer swim in the patrolled Caribbean Sea, from the Marina Hemingway to the mouth of the Río Jaimanitas. Participants will then progress to a two-loop bike course through urban Havana and points north. The 90-kilometer route passes historic sites such as the Plaza de la Revolución, Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña, and the Museo de la Revolución. At the conclusion of the biking, athletes will contest a 42-kilometer run along the famous seaside Malecón, enjoying picturesque views of the ocean and the legendary Hotel Nacional. Runners will pass the Momumento a Calixto García and José Martí Stadium on the way to the finish line at the magnificent Tribuna Anti-Imperialista.
Professional athletes will compete for 50,000 convertible Cuban pesos and a chance to drive away an authentic Volga GAZ-M20 Pobeda.
"The remarkable history of our resilient people will place perspective on the hardships faced by the extreme triathletes," remarked Miguel Figueras, Senior Advisor to the Minister of Tourism. "We are welcome to open the doors of Cuba and sell our wonderful rum and cigars to all who are able to come."
Registration for the 2010 Volga Ironman Cuba presented by Cerveceria Bucanero will open at midnight EST on 15 April 2010. The 2,000-person capacity race is expected to fill within hours. For more information and to register visit IronmanCuba.com.
