(San Juan, Puerto Rico, March 17, 2013)— Carlos Lomba and Carola Acum became the Puerto Rican triathletes with the best records for the men and women individual amateur categories at the 2013 Jeep IRONMAN 70.3 San Juan, receiving a special prize from Degree antiperspirant brand.  This award recognized their passion and determination, qualities that inspire the brand essence.

Among the almost 500 local participants, Carlos Lomba from Guaynabo registered 4:45:59, while Carola Acum, also from Guaynabo, marked 5:18. Each athlete received a $1,000 gift certificate.

During the event, Degree presented its new variation, Degree IRONMAN, a powerful antiperspirant with the innovative MotionSense technology, which responds to body movement releasing extra protection that last 48 hours.

The partnership between Degree and Ironman shows the close relation among both brand essences, characterized by durability, endurance and active lifestyles that ignore limits and barriers.

For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/Degreepr

The third edition of the Jeep IRONMAN 70.3 San Juan is nearing capacity and will close once it sells out or on March 10, 2013, whichever comes first.

Scheduled for March 17, 2013, Jeep IRONMAN 70.3 San Juan is the kickoff event in the 2013 North American IRONMAN 70.3 season. The 2011 and 2012 defending champions, Tim O’Donnell (USA) and Kelly Williamson (USA) will attempt a three-peat. They will, however, have fierce competition among the 60+ pros slated to compete. Included in the women’s field are 2010 IRONMAN World Champion, Mirinda Carfrae (AUS) and 2012 IRONMAN World Champion, Leanda Cave (GBR). These pros will race alongside nearly 1,600 age group athletes, representing 42 countries, on a course that highlights the beauty and history of San Juan and the “Isla Del Encanto,” Puerto Rico.

Participants will start with a 1.2-mile swim in the protected waters of the Condado Lagoon, followed by a transition in the Sixto Escobar Stadium, adjacent to the Caribe Hilton. The 56-mile bike will take athletes from San Juan to the municipality of Dorado and into T2. Along the way they’ll experience beachfront views and several short, but challenging climbs. The 13.1-mile run will lead participants through the city of Old San Juan and past 16th-century Spanish architecture, including the famous Fort San Felipe Del Morro.

One of nearly 60 events in the IRONMAN 70.3 Series, the event will offer a professional prize purse of $50,000. Athletes will also compete for 40 age group qualifying slots to the 2013 IRONMAN World Championship 70.3.

To register for the Jeep IRONMAN 70.3 San Juan or for more information, please visit www.ironmansanjuan.com.

**Originally from: http://www.ironman.com/triathlon-news/articles/2013/02/jeep-ironman-70.3-san-juan-nearing-capacity.aspx#ixzz2LPS2pY5z

2013 IRONMAN 70.3 San Juan Registration Opens Today

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO (May 29, 2012) – IRONMAN^® and BN Sports, today announced that registration for the third edition of the Jeep IRONMAN 70.3^® San Juan will open at noon ET (TODAY), and will be available through the event’s official website at www.ironmansanjuan.com. A special early entry rate of $199 USD will be offered until Saturday, June 2 at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Scheduled for March 17, 2013, the Jeep IRONMAN 70.3 San Juan is a wonderful early season race to the IRONMAN 70.3 circuit. Top IRONMAN contenders will race alongside age group athletes on a breathtaking course that highlights the beauty and history of San Juan and the “Isla Del Encanto,” Puerto Rico. The 1.2-mile swim course will take place in the Condado Lagoon, adjacent to the Caribe Hilton and Conrad Hotel, and the bike course travels along five different municipalities en route to the City of Dorado. The two-loop run course passes by the Spanish Forts of “El Castillo San Felipe del Morro and San Cristobal,” as athletes make their way through the historic walled city of Old San Juan.

One of nearly 60 events in the global IRONMAN 70.3 Series, the race offers a professional prize purse of $50,000 and 30 age group qualifying slots to the 2013 IRONMAN World Championship 70.3, taking place in September, at Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, Nev.

For more information or to register for the Jeep IRONMAN 70.3 San Juan, please visit www.ironmansanjuan.com. For media related inquiries, please contact info@bnsportsllc.com.

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About IRONMAN

The iconic IRONMAN^® brand and event series is the largest participation sports platform in the world. Since the inception of IRONMAN in 1978, athletes have proven that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE^® by crossing finish lines at the world’s most challenging endurance races. Recognized for excellence through distinguished events, world-class athletes and quality products, World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), owner and operator of IRONMAN, has grown from a single race to a global sensation with more than 180 events across five unique brands: IRONMAN, IRONMAN 70.3^®, 5150^™ Triathlon Series, Iron Girl^® and IronKids^®.  Supported by partners including Timex, PowerBar, K-Swiss and TYR, more than 200,000 athletes compete each season in the Ironman and Ironman 70.3 Series. For more information, visit www.ironman.com.

About BN Sports, LLC

BN Sports, LLC, is a citywide sports events management company founded in Puerto Rico in 2008. The company focuses on high-profile sporting events, which promote health and fitness awareness among participants, their family members and the local community. BN Sports’ events also aim to promote the destination of the markets it serves through various media channels, resulting in strong brand awareness for BN Sports sponsors and for the host city, while also positively impacting the local economy. Contact BN Sports at info@bnsportsllc.com.

Hmmmm … how am I going to sell this? Why on earth would anyone want to go to Puerto Rico to compete at Ironman 70.3 San Juan? Who would want to spend any time on the beautiful beaches and warm water? Take in any of the spectacular mountain ranges? Enjoy the luxurious race hotels? Explore 500-year-old forts and the Old City of San Juan, the oldest city in the United States?

You’re right, why even try. In case you’re interested, though, here are a few thoughts on what might make a trip down to San Juan a worthwhile thought this March.

San Juan:

Known as “La Ciudad Amurallada” (the walled city), San Juan, founded in 1521, is the oldest city that flies the US flag. It has become one of the world’s most popular tourist resorts thanks to the beautiful beaches, tropical climate and the lure of the old city with its many bars, restaurants and casinos.

Hotels:

Ironman 70.3 San Juan has two hotel partners. Much of the race action will be centered around the Caribe Hilton, one of the most luxurious resorts in Puerto Rico. It will be an excellent choice for families who are looking for a resort experience. With it’s spectacular pool and exclusive, private beach and lush tropical gardens, the Caribe Hilton is set on an exclusive peninsula and situated between the historic Old San Juan district (less than a 5 minute drive) and the Condado area (3 minutes). It is the closest partner hotel to the transition area. The entire hotel will become Ironman 70.3 San Juan Headquarters and will house the Athlete Check-in, Expo, Pasta Dinner, Awards Party and all TV / Media / Press related matters.

The other hotel partner, the Sheraton Old San Juan Hotel & Casino, is an upscale hotel located in the heart of the historic Old San Juan district. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a chance to explore the old city both during the day and night. The hotel highlights spectacular views of the bay and puts you mere cobblestones away from 16th century Spanish fortresses, fascinating museums, art galleries, restaurants and world-class shopping. This partner hotel is less than 5 minutes away from the transition area and is walking distance to part of the Run Course.

You can’t go wrong with either choice of hotel – both promise to provide a spectacular experience.

Things to do

While relaxing and enjoying the race should be your first priorities when you come to San Juan, it would be a crime if you didn’t take a bit of time to explore some of the many incredible sites at the island. Here’s our pick for the top 10 things to do:

1) The Old City (San Juan)

A given. Spend some time exploring the many restaurants and other sites in this 500-year-old city.

2) “Castillo San Felipe del Morro” (Fort San Felipe del Morro)

Simply a must. Built over a period of 250 years, it provides an opportunity to take a step back into history.

3) “El Yunque” Rainforest

This sub-tropical mountainous forest on the east part of the island is considered another “must-visit” spot on the island.

4) “Las Cuevas de Camuy” (Camuy Caverns)

The largest cave system in the western hemisphere.

5) “Los Baños de Coamo” (The Coamo Natural Hot Springs)

Believed to have healing powers, the hot springs are one of the oldest attractions on the island.

6) “Bahia Fosforecente” (Bioluminescent Bay)

Any disturbance in the water sets off millions of tiny dynoflagellates. This unique experience promises to be an unforgettable addition to your trip.

7)  Vieques & Culebra Islands

Take a step away from the hustle and bustle of the world on either of these two small islands, with their pristine beaches and laid back atmosphere.

8) Arecibo’s Radio Telescope

The World’s Largest and most Sensitive Radiotelescope is located in Arecibo.

9) Toro Verde at Orocovis (Zip Line & Mountain Biking)

If you’re looking for the ultimate in adventure, you’ll want to take in the Zip Line at Toro Verde Nature Adventure Park.

10) Art Museum of Puerto Rico

This huge museum holds many historical artifacts from the 16^th Century to the present.

Training

If Ironman 70.3 San Juan is going to kick-start your 2011 season, you’ll no-doubt want to get some training in, too. Set in the heart of San Juan’s Central Park, the Natatorium has one of the most beautiful pools you’ll ever see. Other sports offered in the complex include diving, synchronized swimming, and water polo; track and field, tennis and racquetball.

While the bike course in San Juan is relatively flat, race organizers had to work hard to find that course – typically any riding in Puerto Rico includes lots of amazing climbs through the spectacular mountains.

Running, of course, is nothing short of spectacular around the old city and the run course for the race.

Whether you’re heading to Ironman 70.3 to participate or simply to watch and enjoy a fantastic holiday, it will be hard not to enjoy yourself this March.

Tomorrow we’ll look at the amazing pro field set to compete at Ironman 70.3 San Juan.

Set in beautiful Puerto Rico, Ironman 70.3 San Juan is the ultimate destination race – in addition to an outstanding course that manages to capture so much of the beauty and history of San Juan, the event takes place in one of the world’s most popular vacation spots just when so many of us are looking for some warm weather and relaxing time on the beach.

With entries for the event set to close soon (either when the race reaches 1,800 competitors or January 31, whichever comes first), I did a site tour in San Juan last week to preview this new addition to the Ironman 70.3 series. Suffice it to say that I was blown away – the course is beautiful, interesting and challenging, while San Juan is a great vacation spot for athletes and their families. Whether you’re looking for a chance to explore the rich history of the island, or simply looking to relax and enjoy the sun, sea and sand, San Juan has it all.

Tomorrow I’ll talk more about the vacation and tourist opportunities available in Puerto Rico, today I’ll look at the course and event.

Race organizers Arturo Diaz and Alejandro Velasquez have managed to find a course that truly captures the spirit and beauty of the island. Race operations will be handled by Ironman staff (one of the most experienced race crews in the world), so despite the fact that it is an inaugural event, it will no-doubt feel like a race that’s been around for a while.

To listen to a conversation with Arturo Diaz, click here

Swim Course

A look at the swim course provides a perfect example of how amazing race day will be. The point-to-point swim takes place in the calm protected waters of the Condado Lagoon. The water temperature will be about 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius). My test swim of the course last Thursday was one of the most enjoyable swims I’ve had in years – I was more than comfortable in the water with just a swim suit and was pleasantly surprised to enjoy a salt-water swim in incredibly calm water. The course also has some interesting twists – as you head back to the swim exit, which is next to the Caribe Hilton (the host hotel), you actually swim under the Dos Hermanos bridge that will no-doubt be lined with fans. There’s a bit of a current to work through over the last 100 m of the course, but you’ll hardly notice it as you head to T1.

Transition is set up in the Sixto Escobar Stadium, which is next to the Caribe Hilton. There is a bit of a run from the swim exit to the stadium – I’m guessing it will be about 400 meters. With lots of room in the stadium, not to mention all the stands for fans and family to cheer from, athletes will have lots of space and also an easy time navigating their way out onto the bike course.

A flat, fast bike

To give you an idea of how supportive the City of San Juan has been, the bike course heads out of the city on a series of major roads that will be closed to traffic. The city has also committed to some major roadwork along the way, so parts of the course will be newly paved for the competitors. The bike course is relatively flat and heads out through the municipality of Dorado. There are lots of spectacular beach-front views along the way and a few short, rolling hills. The real challenge on the bike, though, is likely to come from the wind. The riders are likely to enjoy a tailwind as they head out along the first section of the course (you pass the Bacardi distillery along the way, but probably won’t want to stop for the tour on race day), and go past Toa Baja beach (you’ll want to check out that great view). The course heads inland past El Dorado State Park along the inside lane of a two-lane highway to the turnaround after 19.2 miles of riding. Athletes will likely face a head wind as they head back along this dead-flat portion of the course, then enjoy that tailwind again as they head back out to the turnaround to complete the “inner-loop” of the bike course before heading back to T2 in the stadium.

Tough, Scenic Run

The Ironman 70.3 San Juan run course is truly the highlight of the race. Coming out of T2 there’s a short climb up and over a ramp that will likely serve as the first test the pros and competitive age groupers will put to each other as they try to drop their competitors. It will be the first of many such tests as the course heads into Old San Juan. The first few miles of the course are basically a gradual uphill, but you’re not likely to even notice that as you take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic ocean and the spectacular Spanish Forts (San Cristobal and San Felipe Del Morro) that were built over a 250 year period to protect San Juan from attack. The run up to Del Morro is nothing short of amazing, but you’ll have to finally take your eyes off the fort as you run down a grass hill and then hit the centuries-old cobblestoned streets that take you through the red-painted City Gate that, for hundreds of years, served as the official entrance to the walled city. (You won’t do this during the race, but at some point during your trip check out the huge wooden doors that once served to protect the city.) As nice as the run up to Fort San Felipe Del Moro might be, the run along the path that runs next to the old city wall is simply amazing. The turnaround comes at the base of the 50-foot wall, then you get to head back and enjoy all the sights again as you work your way through the two-loop course.

As much fun as the race will be, Ironman 70.3 San Juan is going to be even more enjoyable because of some of the other activities race organizers have put in place. Thursday afternoon will feature a series of interesting seminars and clinics – beginning with some inspirational talks from “Ironman heroes,” a training talk provided by Luis Vargas from MarkAllenOnline and wrapping up with the “Macca Unplugged” session on Thursday evening. Any chance to hear Ford Ironman World Champion Chris McCormack speak is always entertaining, so make sure you get your tickets for this session early.

Then there’s the post-race party. Puerto Ricans pride themselves on their ability to put on a big party, so the post-race celebration for Ironman 70.3 San Juan promises to be … well, I’ll just say it’s likely to be a good time. Set on the grounds of the Caribe Hilton next to the beautiful swimming pool and the resort’s private beach and featuring live music, it’s likely to be one of the most entertaining post-race parties of the year.

In these days when so many of us roll into race sites the day before an event and then head home right afterwards, Ironman 70.3 San Juan marks the return of the destination race to the Ironman 70.3 event schedule. Adding this race to your schedule is likely to be a hit with any of your family and friends who can enjoy the trip with you and you’re guaranteed to have a great time, too.

Tomorrow we’ll look at tourist opportunities in San Juan and on Wednesday I’ll write about the incredible pro field we’re likely to see in San Juan in a few months, and how much of a difference the race has made for Puerto Rico’s triathlon community.

Scheduled for March 18, 2012, the Jeep Ironman 70.3 San Juan is the kickoff event in the Ironman 70.3 2012 North American season.  The 2011 defending champions, Tim O’Donnell (USA) and Kelly Williamson (USA), will race alongside nearly 1,800 age group athletes, representing 35 countries, on a course that highlights the beauty and history of San Juan and the “Isla Del Encanto,” Puerto Rico.

Participants will start with a 1.2-mile swim in the protected waters of the Condado Lagoon followed by a transition in the Sixto Escobar Stadium, adjacent to the Caribe Hilton. Athletes will then have a 56-mile bike that will take them from San Juan, to the municipality of Dorado and into T2, experiencing beachfront views and several short but challenging climbs. The 13.1-mile run will lead participants through the city of Old San Juan and past 16th-century Spanish architecture, including the famous Fort San Felipe Del Morro.

One of nearly 60 events in the Ironman 70.3 Series, the event will offer a professional prize purse of $50,000.  Athletes will also compete for 30 age group qualifying slots to the 2012 Ironman World Championship 70.3, to be held on Sept. 9, 2012, at Lake Las Vegas in Henderson, Nev.

To register for the Jeep Ironman 70.3 San Juan or for more information, please visit www.ironmansanjuan.com. For press related inquiries, please contact media70.3@ironman.com.

About Ironman

The iconic Ironman® brand and event series is the largest participation sports platform in the world. Since its inception in 1978, athletes have proven that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE® by crossing finish lines at the world’s most challenging endurance races. Recognized for excellence through distinguished events, world-class athletes and quality products, World Triathlon Corporation (WTC), owner and operator of the Ironman brand, has grown from a single race to a global sensation with more than 180 events across five unique brands: Ironman, Ironman 70.3®, 5150™ Triathlon Series, Iron Girl® and IronKids™.  With support from partners, including Timex, PowerBar, K-Swiss and TYR, more than 200,000 athletes compete each season in the Ironman and Ironman 70.3 series. For more information, visit www.ironman.com

About BN Sports, LLC

BN Sports, LLC, is a citywide sports events management company founded in Puerto Rico in 2008. The company focuses on high-profile sporting events, which promote health and fitness awareness among participants, their family members and the local community. BN Sports’ events also aim to promote the destination of the markets it serves through various media channels, resulting in strong brand awareness for BN Sports sponsors and for the host city, while also positively impacting the local economy.  Contact BN Sports at info@bnsportsllc.com.

“It is an honor to be the title sponsor of the 2012 Jeep Ironman 70.3 San Juan,” said Ray Lugo, managing director of CGIS LLC.  “This event will continue our tradition and commitment in sponsoring world class sporting events in Puerto Rico. “

The second-annual Ironman 70.3 San Juan will kick off the 2012 Ironman North America racing season and will be transmitted locally via live news capsules.  Participants will swim 1.2 miles in the protected waters of the Condado Lagoon. Spectators and athletes will have a great view of the swim course from the San Juan Beach, the Dos Hermanos Bridge and the Caribe Hilton’s San Geronimo grounds. The transition between the swim and bike will take place in the Sixto Escobar Stadium, adjacent to the Caribe Hilton. Continuing with a 56-mile bike from San Juan, cyclists will head toward the municipality of Dorado, experiencing beachfront views and several short but challenging climbs. The 13.1-mile run will lead participants through the city of Old San Juan and past 16th-century Spanish architecture, including the famous Fort San Felipe del Morro.

There are 971 direct national and international flights to Puerto Rico and no passport is required when traveling from the U.S. mainland. For more information, please visit the event’s official website, www.ironmansanjuan.com.

About Chrysler Group International Services, LLC

Chrysler Group International LLC, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat Group, produces Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and Mopar® vehicles and products. With the resources, technology and worldwide distribution network required to compete on a global scale, the alliance builds on Chrysler’s culture of innovation — first established by Walter P. Chrysler in 1925 — and Fiat’s complementary technology — from a company whose heritage dates back to 1899. Chrysler Group International Puerto Rico distributes Chrysler, Jeep Dodge and Ram vehicles to 9 dealers in the in the island and to the USVI. For more information about Chrysler Group International visit www.chryslerpr.com or follow us on facebook; chryslerpr, dodgepr, jeeppr and fiatpr.

About BN Sports, LLC

BN Sports, LLC, is a citywide sports events management company founded in Puerto Rico in 2008. The company focuses on high-profile sporting events, which promote health and fitness awareness among participants, their family members and the local community. BN Sports’ events also aim to promote the destination of the markets it serves through various media channels, resulting in strong brand awareness for BN Sports sponsors and for the host city, while also positively impacting the local economy. Contact BN Sports at info@bnsportsllc.com.