SYRACUSE -- Being a first time event in Central New York in 2010, many weren’t sure how the Ironman 70.3 Syracuse would turn out. Judging by the numbers of competitors and their response to the triathlon, I would say it was a HUGE success. Over 1900 people from over a dozen countries gave it their all to complete the swim, bike and run course covering a total combined 70.3 miles. On Wednesday the Syracuse Convention and Visitors Bureau announced in conjunction with the World Triathlon Corporation that we can expect a change in the run course and confirmed that the race will be held for the next three years.
To improve the half ironman distance event for both racers and spectators alike, the run portion of the course has been changed from a point to point to a loop. It will now start and also finish at Jamesville Beach County Park. Personally, I think this is a great improvement to the race for a couple of reasons. Traffic was a mess on the run portion down Erie Boulevard on a Sunday midday and afternoon. Motorists idled in slow moving traffic due to lane closures and athletes had to breathe in all the exhaust fumes. It was also difficult for spectators to get a view of the transition area and the finish line because roads were closed due to athletes still being on the course. Starting with this year, people will be able to hang out at a great county park and see all three disciplines of the sport without driving around.
In addition to confirming that the race would stay in Syracuse through 2013, race organizers announced a change in the month of the annual race starting next year. It will be moved to late June which will hopefully translate into warmer weather. The 2010 inaugural race was held on an exceptionally cool autumn day which had drizzle and fog at times. Personally I liked the cooler temperatures as I didn’t have to take in as much in fluids to prevent dehydration.
You can read the complete announcement made Wednesday on the Syracuse Convention and Visitors Bureau here. I’m already registered for the race coming up on September 18th. You can learn more about the race or even sign up for yourself at IronmanSyracuse.com. Follow my training and weather forecasts on Facebook.com by clicking here and become a friend of mine.
