IRONMAN 70.3 brings athletes, spectators to town

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CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) — It was rise and grind for several athletes taking on the IRONMAN 70.3 in Chattanooga Sunday morning.

The intense half IRONMAN brought out the pros, amateurs and a crowd of supporters and volunteers.

Around 22 minutes in, IRONMAN 70.3 competitors start flowing out from the 1.2 mile swim against the Tennessee River current, the first stretch of the triathlon.

Fans, friends and family show support and some competitors were showing the love right back.

Tracy Brownlee drove all the way from Toronto to cheer on her four friends.

“This is we all took time of work this is our vacation and I, just to be here and be good cheerleaders,” said Brownlee.

After the swim, it’s on to the 56 mile bike ride and then the 13.1 mile run.

Athletes of all kinds compete – the elites, the pros making impressive times.

Matthew Russell clocks just over 3 hours and 57 minutes. The Florida resident turning up the heat last minute with a powerful run to take over the top spot.

“I caught him right around I think mile 11. And, I just kept staying strong the last two miles and yeah, it’s nice to finish first” said Russell after his victory.

Not long after, Heather Jackson with all smiles crosses the finish line in just over 4 hours and 15 minutes. The female champ is a two-time winner in Chattanooga.

“People here are so nice. Everyone is so friendly, great food, great bars, and all the fans out there are just like, it was covered the whole course, it was awesome. I love this race” said Jackson.

The Pro prize purse for the race is $30,000 and 500 pro points.

 

 

Categories: Chattanooga, Local News
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