The ultimate IRONMAN endurance test?
UK and Ireland Ironman organisers create the Ultimate Ironman challenge
Athletes of all abilities are pushing new boundaries in endurance racing although a fresh test has emerged that’s arguably one of the hardest in Western Europe.
The series of four UK and Ireland Ironman branded races is proving to be the ultimate challenge for some competitors next season. This will see athletes attempt an amazing two full distance and two 70.3 races between June and September next year.
This is no easy feat as it will require an exceptional effort to complete over 420 miles of racing inside three months. The UK organising team have agreed to provide some extra reward for athletes who are attempting the task.
As a result athletes embarking upon the ‘ultimate’ will receive special race numbers and a commemorative package including t-shirt, jacket and a unique medal as part of a special awards ceremony. A ‘Wall of Fame’ will also be created online to honour the success of those who can overcome the odds to finish all four races in the same season.
The series of races involved in the ultimate Ironman test includes:
Ironman 70.3 UK: 17 June 2012
Ironman UK: 22 July 2012
Ironman 70.3 Ireland: 2 September 2012
Ironman Wales: 16 September 2012
Dan James, Operations Director for IRONMAN UK, said “We will discount the entry fee for the fourth and final race for people completing the series. They will need help to motivate themselves during this unique journey and we will do all we can to help them through what will be an extraordinary accomplishment.”
To find out more about the IRONMAN series of events in the UK & Ireland visit www.ironmanuk.com or contact the Ironman office at uk@ironman.com to receive further information or to ask any questions.
Matt Baird
Editor of Cycling Plus magazine 
