Milestone for ‘race like no other’
Ironman triathlon celebrating 40th anniversary this weekend in Taupō
New Zealand’s iconic Ironman triathlon will be returning to Taupō this Saturday to celebrate its 40thanniversary edition. The event is expected to see 2000 athletes from across the globe compete for the winning title at its annual competition. About 1800 volunteers are expected to be supporting triathletes.
The first Ironman-licensed race in New Zealand started in 1985 in Auckland’s Mission Bay and moved locations to Taupō in 1999.
Ironman New Zealand and Ironman 70.3 New Zealand race director Wayne Reardon said in a media statement “[Ironman] couldn’t be more excited to welcome thousands of athletes and supporters to Taupō for the 40th anniversary edition of Ironman New Zealand”.
Readon said the Taupō region was known for its “stunning landscapes” and “supportive and inspiring locals” who watched from the sidelines supporting the event.
The Ironman triathlon includes a 3.8km swim, 108km bike ride and a 42.2km run and those competing in the 70.3 Ironman will race a 1.9km swim, 90km bike and a 21.1km run.
Readon said the event was a “world-class” experience for triathletes and it was a “race like no other”.
He said there would be a “special welcome” on Thursday evening
[Ironman] couldn’t be more excited to welcome thousands of athletes and supporters for the 40th anniversary . . .
which would feature “special guest speakers” to celebrate the anniversary special birthday event.
Readon said a one-off Ironman New Zealand exhibit would also be on display at Taupō Museum, as well as the “iconic undie run” in support of the organisation’s Tony Jackson scholars Josh Brodie and Josh vs Asthma, which would be held on Thursday morning.
Taupō District Mayor David Trewavas said in a media statement the event was a “milestone” for both Ironman and Taupō.
“We are delighted to welcome all the athletes, their supporters, and friends to the Taupō District and look forward to celebrating the Anzco Foods Ironman New Zealand 40th birthday this year.”
Trewavas said it was the 25th year the region had held the “iconic event” and would see about 1800 volunteers involved.
He said the event had a “huge economic impact” on the district and brought a “vibrancy” to the town as tourists, athletes and supporters were welcomed from “across the globe”.
Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board chief executive officer Rakeipoho Taiaroa said in a media statement he gave “well wishes” to athletes “set to race [in] Taupō this Saturday”.
“As we approach the 25th year that Ironman has taken place in our rohe, the Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board welcomes all Ironman New Zealand participants and wishes them a safe and enjoyable time on our moana.”
The Ironman event’s 40th anniversary edition will begin on Lake Terrace. Athletes will finish on the red carpet at Tongariro Domain.
Ironman 70.3 NZ race director Wayne Reardon