URBAN Hotel Group IRONMAN 70.3 returns to Geelong

Geelong has long been known as the home of long course triathlon racing and the IRONMAN brand makes a welcome return in February 2014.

The event announcement was made today by City of Greater Geelong Councillor Ron Nelson who is the portfolio holder for Major Events and Tourism.

“I am thrilled to announce the return of Ironman 70.3 to Geelong as a feature event and part of the Geelong Multi Sport Festival,” said Cr Nelson.

“This iconic event is part of a global world qualifying series and it will be great to see some of the most dedicated and determined athletes battle it out right here in Geelong.”

We are also pleased to announce the URBAN Hotel Group, an active supporter of Ironman in Australia returns as our naming rights partner.

Ricky Jeffs Chief Operating Officer of Erdigroup owning company of Urban Hotel Group said, “The URBAN Hotel Group is fortunate to once again be involved as a naming sponsor of an Ironman event in Australia. For the last 5 years we have immersed ourselves in this amazing sport.

“Erdigroup is passionate about Geelong and is a proud owner and operator of The Four Points by Sheraton Geelong,” said Mr Jeffs.

The URBAN Hotel Group IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong will headline the annual Geelong Multi Sport Festival weekend program held over three action-packed days of sport and entertainment.

Being held along the Waterfront from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 February 2014, the festival will feature a wide range of sports and activities that appeal to a broader market and ensure participation across all levels of ability and ages.

The festival, now in its fourth year continues to grow and engage the local community with great events to get involved with but also provide a unique opportunity for triathletes to compete on an exceptional and iconic course.

IRONMAN Asia Pacific CEO, Geoff Meyer said the return of the IRONMAN 70.3 event is a result of demand from our customers in Victoria which has a proud history of long course racing in the state, especially in Geelong.

The event is perfectly positioned as an ideal race preparation for those racing at the IRONMAN Asia Pacific Championship Melbourne event on March 24, 2014.

“The Ironman 70.3 Series is the fastest growing triathlon series in the world, with 59 events held in 24 countries and we’re really proud to be able to deliver this event back to Geelong.

“We expect the URBAN Hotel Group IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong to attract over 1,500 competitors and thousands of visitors to the region, providing a tremendous economic boost”, said Mr Meyer

Entries for the URBAN Hotel Group IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong open online Tuesday 27 August, 2013 for Triathlon Australia members, and to the public on Thursday 29 August 2013.

Individuals who enter prior to 30 September will be in the running to win one of 50 exclusive entry spots to the sold out 2014 IRONMAN Asia-Pacific Championship Melbourne.

The IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong will offer a USD25,000 prize purse and 30 age group qualifying slots for the 2014 IRONMAN ^® World Championship 70.3 in Mont Tremblant, Quebec, Canada.