Ironman and Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce have agreed to a three-year agreement to keep the Ironman 70.3 Maine triathlon in Augusta, Maine, through 2027.
After relocating to its new Augusta venue in 2022, Ironman notes that… ‘The event has become a popular bucket list event on the IM 70.3 circuit. Athletes continue to flock to the Kennebec Valley for its New England scenery and landscape hoping to cross the finish line at this unique Ironman 70.3 triathlon experience.’
“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce for three more years,” said Dave Christen, Northeast Regional Director for The IM Group.
“The Ironman 70.3 Maine event has become a sought-after race experience in our portfolio and the demand for this event is growing. Athletes also continue to vote Ironman 70.3 Maine as having one of the best swim courses in North America with good reason.
“The swift downriver swim makes it a great event for athletes looking for their next personal best. We are honoured to work with our partners at the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce to continue to offer an Ironman 70.3 triathlon in this scenic and beautiful northeast community.”
Katie Doherty, President & CEO of the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce, said “The Kennebec Valley Chamber is thrilled to extend our contract with Ironman 70.3 triathlon till 2027.
“We believe our relationship with Ironman is a mutually beneficial agreement that produces net positive results. With a recurring investment in our beautiful State Capital, its pristine nature, tourism economy, and our local business communities, we are certain that Ironman’s success will have another rich opportunity to showcase itself.
She continued, “This is a huge economic impact on our region; and the Kennebec Valley Chamber is certainly proud to host the IM 70.3 Maine. We look forward to continuing this partnership and having it grow over the years.”
Augusta is the easternmost state capital in the United States. The state of Maine has more than 30 state parks covering over 500,000 acres. A short drive to the coast and proximity to Portland makes Augusta a well-placed race location.
The Ironman 70.3 Maine triathlon takes place in Maine’s capital city of Augusta. Athletes will experience a rural New England course beginning with a swift 1.2-mile downriver swim in the Kennebec River, followed by a 56-mile ride through Maine’s farmland, and capping off the race with a 13.1-mile run along the river and through New England towns.
The 2023 edition of IM 70.3 Maine took place on Sunday, July 30, and featured more than 2,200 athletes. Giorgia Priarone (ITA) won the women’s professional race with a finishing time of 04:11:24, while Trevor Foley (USA) topped the podium in the men’s professional race with a time of 03:33:58.