THE hugely popular Standard Bank IRONMAN African Championship 2019 is set to take place in Nelson Mandela Bay again on Sunday, April 7, next year.
The Standard Bank IRONMAN African Championship started in 2005 and quickly caught the eye of many. It now boasts over 2 000 athletes who register for the event year on year.
It is regarded as one of the most popular triathlon events with over a third of the entrants being international competitors. The warm climate, fantastic local spectator support and ideal venue makes the race a favourite for South African and international athletes.
This year’s event saw Nelson Mandela Bay hero Kyle Buckingham taking the men’s title in an exhilarating race.
This was the first time a South African has taken the top step of the podium since Raynard Tissink won in 2011. Buckingham said winning the race had been a dream since watching Tissink win and he wanted to be the next South African to take the title.
The Standard Bank IRONMAN African Championship course is characterised by pristine, golden beaches, stunning coastal beauty on the bike course and an electrifying urban run making it one of the most popular IRONMAN events on the circuit.
“The local community does an excellent job of hosting our athletes from the volunteers to family and friends cheering on the side of the road. The city takes ownership and the atmosphere is unbelievable,” said Colleen Durant, IRONMAN South Africa race director.
General entries to the 2019 Standard Bank IRONMAN African Championship opened on April 24. After the recent success of the inaugural event, entries are expected to sell fast.
For more info go to www.ironman.com.
