We called it here yesterday. Ironman hinted on social media yesterday that an announcement was coming, posting a partial picture that was quickly picked up as part of Augusta, Maine. Today the company announced that Augusta would, in fact, be hosting an event – the state capitol is the new host venue for Ironman 70.3 Maine, which had previously been held at Old Orchard Beach. The race will take place on July 31, 2022.
“Ironman 70.3 Maine has been an athlete favorite for the same reasons people love to come to Maine in the summer,” says Ironman’s regional director of the Northeast, Dave Christen. “This charming capital city will offer athletes that perfect Maine experience. We are excited to partner with this great city, the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, and the regional partners who will support the event. Athletes will fall in love with the capital city as Augusta will not only become a staple in their racing calendar, but also a favorite place to stay year-round. We can’t wait for athletes to come see what makes summer in Maine so special.”
The new race venue is situated in central Maine. Augusta is on the Kennebec River, about an hour away from the state’s largest city, Portland. The race will start with a down-river, 1.9 km, point-to-point swim in the Kennebec River. Athletes will transition near the Main capitol buildings, then head out onto the 90 km bike ride “along tree-lined roads with rolling hills.” The 21.1 km run will follow the Kennebec River Rail Trail and head through Augusta.
You can get more information about the race here.
