PANAJI: Ironman 70.3 to be held in India for the second time, with Goa Tourism being the principal sponsors this time; is set to emphasise Goa’s emergence as a global destination for Sports Tourism.
To be held on Sunday, November 13 starting at Miramar Beach; the endurance race organised by Yoska – will see triathletes complete a 113 kms course comprising a 1.9km sea swim, followed by a 90km cycle ride and a 21km half-marathon within the stipulated eight and a half hours.
Over 1300 participants from across 33 countries will be vieing for the prestigious title as well as qualification slots for the 2023 Ironman 70.3 World Championship.
For Goa the tourism paradise state known generally for ‘sun sand and sea’, the high-profile event after the pandemic-enforced gloom; in the form of Ironman 70.3 Goa is one of the many events to come, welcomed Tourism Minister, Rohan Khaunte at the Press Conference to unveil the Finishers’ T-Shirt and announce details of the biggest sports event since the outbreak of Covid19.
“Ironman 70.3 Goa is an event that engraves Goa on the world map as sports tourism destination. I am happy that Ironman 70.3 Goa is on board to start our journey, as anchor of tourism,” stated Khaunte.
Deepak Raj, Co-founder of Yoska and Race Director of Ironman 70.3 Goa, said: “We are truly grateful for all the support we have received from the Government of Goa. Every department has extended their support. This year, we have promoted women in sports initiative with more than 20 all-women relay teams taking part and for the first time, we have invited more than 90 participants from the army, navy and police to participate in this year’s race and mark the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav celebrations.”
Jeff Edwards, CEO of Ironman Asia, said: “It is great to witness the enthusiasm and excitement among the participants. The increase in registrations goes to show that the sport is growing in India.”
Uday Prakash, Vice-President of Herbalife Nutrition India who is supporting the event, said: “Herbalife Nutrition has a proven track record in supporting endurance sports events around the world and we are excited to be partnering with Ironman 70.3 Goa.”
The race will be flagged off at Miramar Beach at 0640 hours on Sunday.
