Press Release: World's Toughest Off-Road Triathlon - Triathlon Week

Robert G. · 01-02-2003, 10:59 AM

Rock and Road LLC Announces Inaugural MOUNTAIN EXTREME Triathlon

World's Toughest Off-Road Triathlon Begins July 11, 2003

If Xterra® and Ironman® had an evil love-child, this would be it. The Mountain Extreme Triathlon is an intense, off-road, Iron-distance endurance race in the heart of Utah ski country. On July 11, 2003, 600 trailblazing athletes will have the honor of opening a new era in multisport competition. It remains to be seen, of course, how many will actually cross the finish line.

"While talking with other racers at Ironman® and Xterra® events, I've noticed an interest in a long-format race with the increased demands of an off-road bike and run," says Race Director Bryant Christensen. "People who have done a couple Ironman® events are wondering, 'Well, what's next?' People who have been racing Xterra® ask, 'Could I do more?' The Mountain Extreme is the answer to these questions."

Where and When
The Mountain Extreme will be centered around Park City, Utah, home to many 2002 Olympic ski events, the annual Sundance Film Festival, and extraordinary mountain biking. The race begins July 11 at 6 a.m., with a final cutoff time of 24 hours. "The increased difficulty of an off-road event warrants extended time to complete the race," says race organizer Mark Warner. "And we really want everyone who has the courage to do this race to have a chance to cross the finish line, even if it literally takes them all day."

The swim will be a mass-start, two-loop affair in Jordanelle Reservoir. More protected from wind than other Utah lakes, Jordanelle is nestled in the mountains, 10 miles from downtown Park City. Wetsuits are required; water temperature in July will be close to 70F.

The 112-mile bike course promises to be the most challenging part of the race, with approximately 9,000 feet of climbing. Racers will ride on single-track, fire roads, and dirt rail trail. Many will not finish the bike until close to the T2 cutoff time at 10:00 p.m. Friday evening.

The final leg of this personal adventure race will be a marathon on the trails and dirt roads around Park City, lit by racers' personal lights and a beautiful full moon.

Throughout the race, participants will be able to count on outstanding support at frequent aid stations, as well as famously friendly Utah volunteers and multiple spots for racers' own support crews.

Every finisher will receive a fantastic award as proof that they finished the world's toughest off-road triathlon. A bonus award will be given to the elite few racers who finish before midnight.

Tired of pounding the pavement? Come to Park City next July and help write a new chapter in the book of triathlon.

For More Information
Visit www.mxtri.com, or call 801-361-7365 for more information on the Mountain Extreme Triathlon. Registration opens Nov. 1, 2002; registration will be exclusively on-line from the website. The registration fee is $295, which includes a racer's swag-bag, event gear, pre- and post-event meals, and access to some of the finest recreation and dining services on earth. Discounted lodging packages and excellent camping facilities are also available.