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Ironman Canada returns to its roots in Penticton

After a seven-year hiatus, Ironman Canada returns to Penticton in 2020

Penticton, British Columbia will once again play host to Ironman Canada in 2020. “We are excited to return to Penticton, the genesis of Ironman Canada and one of our longest-running events,” said Andrew Messick, President and Chief Executive Officer for The IRONMAN Group. “With over 30 years of history, we expect that the return of Ironman Canada to this unique venue will energize both the veteran athlete who participated in the original event and a whole new generation of athletes who will come to experience the Okanagan tradition that has enriched this amazing race venue.”

Lisa Bentley at Ironman Canada.

From 1983 to 2012, the Okanagan Valley was host to one of the most anticipated Ironman events in the world. The race then left in 2013 to Whistler. After seven-years of racing (including this year on July 28th) in the Whistler area, and return was rumoured earlier in the year after a city council meeting in Penticton. Within months a unanimous yes was voted in a Penticton city council meetings, and a proposal was sent to Ironman.

Related: Proposal for Ironman return to Penticton

Ironman Canada 2010

The 2020 Ironman Canada course will keep some of it’s most iconic features, beginning with the 3.8K swim in Okanagan Lake. The bike will keep its famous single 180K loop with the scenic climb up and over Richter pass. The course will finish up with a 42.2K run that will feature some of the historical route and some new elements to showcase the surrounding region.

Related: Penticton votes yes for Ironman Canada return

“We are truly honoured to have IRONMAN Canada return to the Okanagan Valley,” said Penticton Mayor, John Vassilaki. “Penticton has enjoyed some great memories made throughout the years of this epic event, and we are happy to know that there will be many more made in the coming years. We know that Penticton has been and will continue to be a premier destination for the sport. We are happy to welcome Ironman back and offer athletes from around the globe the challenge and experience of a lifetime.”

The 2020 Subaru Ironman Canada triathlon is scheduled for August 30th and will offer 40 qualifying slots to the 2021 Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i.