Chattanooga Hosts Second IRONMAN Event: Sunbelt Bakery Sponsors Inaugural 70.3 Triathlon
CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (November 5, 2014) – IRONMAN today announced that Chattanooga will host the 26th race in the IRONMAN® 70.3® U.S. Series, with Sunbelt Bakery as title sponsor. The inaugural Sunbelt Bakery IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga triathlon is set for Sunday, May 17, 2015.
"Following the resounding success of Little Debbie IRONMAN® Chattanooga, we're thrilled to introduce an IRONMAN 70.3 event, offering athletes another chance to compete amid this region's stunning landscapes," said Andrew Messick, IRONMAN Chief Executive Officer. "Chattanooga excelled as a host in September, and we're eager to deepen our partnership with this vibrant community."
The Sunbelt Bakery IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga features a 1.2-mile point-to-point swim down the Tennessee River, a 56-mile one-loop bike course through north Georgia and historic Chickamauga—boasting breathtaking views along Lookout Mountain—and a 13.1-mile double-loop run through the 'Scenic City.' Runners will pass downtown Chattanooga, the Tennessee Riverwalk, Veterans Bridge, North Shore, Walnut Street Bridge, and Riverfront Parkway, finishing triumphantly at Ross’s Landing Park.
"Hosting a second IRONMAN event is a true honor, reflecting our community's strong collaboration. We're one of only 10 cities worldwide to host both full and 70.3 IRONMAN races—a remarkable achievement," said Bob Doak, President & CEO of the Chattanooga Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. "With over 6,000 participants, families, and spectators, we anticipate a $3-4 million annual economic boost. This May date aligns perfectly with our tourism needs. Gratitude to Mayors Jim Coppinger and Andy Berke for their steadfast support."
Hamilton County Mayor Jim Coppinger added, "We're proud IRONMAN selected Chattanooga for this 70.3 triathlon. Hamilton County shines in the spotlight with top-tier infrastructure, world-class natural venues for athletes, and memorable experiences for spectators. Community backing made this possible—special thanks to Chris McKee, Sunbelt Bakery, and the McKee family for title sponsorship."
Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke stated, "On September 28, IRONMAN athletes and organizers discovered a welcoming Chattanooga, fueled by our city's spirit, organization, and natural assets. Securing both a full IRONMAN and now the 70.3 is a testament to that. Thanks to all involved, especially the McKee family and Sunbelt Bakery."
Sunbelt Bakery IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga awards 30 age-group slots to the 2015 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship on August 30 in Zell am See-Kaprun, SalzburgerLand, Austria.
General registration opens Tuesday, November 18, 2014, at 12:00 p.m. ET at www.ironman.com/chattanooga70.3. Learn more about IRONMAN at www.ironman.com. Athlete inquiries: chattanooga70.3@ironman.com. Media: press@ironman.com.
ABOUT IRONMAN
The iconic IRONMAN® Series is the world's largest participation sports platform. Since 1978, athletes have tested limits at the toughest endurance races, proving ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE®. From one race to over 190 events across IRONMAN®, IRONMAN 70.3®, 5150™ Triathlon Series, Iron Girl®, and IRONKIDS®. Visit www.ironman.com.
ABOUT SUNBELT® BAKERY
Family-owned McKee Foods, based in Collegedale, Tenn., launched Sunbelt Bakery in 1982. Offering chewy granola bars, fruit and grain cereal bars, and cereals. Learn more at www.sunbeltbakery.com.
