Sam Appleton to defend title at Ironman 70.3 Vineman

The young Australian took the win here last year, to his own surprise. “I have been looking forward to coming back to defend my title,” said Appleton. “I feel like I am getting race fit at the right time and I am looking forward to drawing out that race fitness on the course this weekend.”

“Hoffman continues to work on speed, coming off his hard-earned 4th at Ironman 70.3 Coeur d’Alene two weeks ago. It looks to be a world championship calibre field, including teammates Sam and Terenzo, and Caroline on the women’s side,” the American noted. “I’m looking forward to getting the best out of myself on Sunday and cheering my fiance Kelsey across the line in her race too.”

Steffen will once more hop across the pond to challenge the US women in their own backyard. Earlier this year, the Swiss made a splash, taking 2nd place at Oceanside. It’s great to be back in California and I’m excited to try out a new course at 70.3 Vineman. I love getting in the mix with the best girls in the sport and this race should bring out the best in me.”

Jodie Swallow and James Cunnama will be heading to Ironman 70.3 Sweden from their Summer base in Girona, Spain. “We are set up in Girona for a Summer of hard work, getting ready for Ironman World Champs,” said Cunnama. “We are looking to use 70.3 Sweden to kick off our build to Kona, hopefully on a positive note. Jodie has raced and won in Sweden before, but it will be another new country for me to tick off the list.”

“Since my first visit to Sweden in 2013 for the Ironman I have been going on to James about it constantly,” added Swallow. “I loved the place and the people, so I hope Jonkoping lives up to my expectations.”

The Brit is building back up after her triumphant Cairns race. “i have started getting my legs going and I’m sure a good race will help shock them into action,” she noted. “Not a kind way to do it, but hopefully an effective kick start to our Kona block.”