IRONMAN announces new course for December 70.3 event

Darren Petry from Taupō District Council

IRONMAN New Zealand has announced a new trial course for the December 70.3 event which will see more competitors taking to the field than ever before.

The event on Saturday, December 7 is a qualifying event for the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championships to be hosted in the Taupō District in November 2020 and will see more than 1800 athletes competing for 127 slots to compete on the world stage – the highest in any of the 104 qualifying races.

Mayor David Trewavas said the trial course a new course would start from the Taupō Yacht Club for the swim leg of the race. The bike course would head through Taupō along Rifle Range Road, Taharepa Road, Vaile Road, Halcrow Road and Homestead Road. The run course would be along the lakefront, finishing at Tongariro Domain.

“The December and March events are allowing us to trial a few new opportunities in the lead up to the world’s and better ensure athlete safety,” he said. “Moving the bike leg off Spa Road will also allow us to ensure three entrance ways into town via Wairakei Drive, Centennial Drive and Napier-Taupō Road,” he said.

“I understand that this change will cause some inconvenience, however, I am sure that in true Taupō spirit we will further cement our reputation as the events capital through the co-operation of our residents and volunteers.”

Residents and businesses on the affected route have been informed.