For years, Vineman Inc. brought athletes to northern California to compete in the picturesque wine-country scenery. From the Russian River’s slow and steady flow to the hundreds of grapevine covered acres lining meandering roads great for biking and running, the region offers sights and sounds not found in quite the same mix anywhere else in the country. This year, that tradition will continue under new ownership—Vineman is now a part of the Ironman family of events.
The Ironman Vineman and Ironman 70.3 Vineman still plunge racers into the cool and calm waters of the Russian River and deliver breathtaking views of the Sonoma region’s best vineyards. Now, however, racers will be competing as part of an international network of events respected the world over for their intensity, quality, and commitment to athletes. Certainly, there are racers and community members who are concerned that Vineman will no longer be a locally owned and operated event. Still others were sad to see the specific charity goals of Vineman go. We know it will take some racers a little time, but we hope that Ironman continues pushing athletesin the same way Vineman always has—toward higher achievement and civic-mindedness while competing hard in one of America’s most beautiful landscapes. Ironman has also named a charity partner for Ironman Vineman—Save the Children. With the ambitious goal of raising $500,000.00 for this venerable charity, we are pleased that the philanthropic heart of the Vineman tradition carries on in the Ironman races.
Ironman also assures racers that the Vineman goal of producing a great race that average triathletes can compete in and professionals will still be challenged by endures. The swimming leg is in the cool but calm Russian River. The biking portion offers a challenge across the regions hill-covered terrain, but caps at just under 4,000 feet of climbing. A three loop, out-and-back run course allows athlete’s beautiful views of the Sonoma County’s country roads and allows spectators to see their favorite athletes more often without crisscrossing the race course.
In addition to the sights to see and the change to give during Ironman Vineman, there will also be 40 qualifying spots for Ironman World Championship in Kona, HI! To learn more about the race, the course, the charitable possibilities, or how you could qualify for Kona, visit the Ironman Vineman site here. To stay up-to-date with all things #ITSTHENERVE as we get closer to our launch date, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Good luck to all the Ironman Vineman 2016 racers!
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