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Entries Sought for Ironman Langkawi

As an official qualifier for the Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, held every October, the organisers are eager to revive interest in the event after a poor turnout last year due to the south Asian tsunami.

The race consists of a 3.8km swim from the jetty in Kuah town, followed by a 180.2km cycle race of two and a half loops around the coastal roads of Langkawi Island culminating with the 42.2km marathon run of two, 21.1 km loops.

All participants must finish the race within 17 hours to win the Ironman title.

Director of competition A. Chandrakumanan said the organisers were hoping to attract 500 participants, including defending champ Luc Van Lierde from Holland and 2003 champion Bryan Rhodes from New Zealand.

Ironman Langkawi offers overall cash prizes worth US$50,000 (RM185,000), and 35 qualifying places to the world championship in Hawaii.

"We are also discussing with some of the professionals and former world champions who have indicated their interest to participate in the event and we could get their confirmation soon.

Chandrakumanan added that the organisers were grateful to the State Government and the various agencies for their support in making the event a success.

For information, call 03-2692-3171 or 03-2692-9034 or fax 03-2698-2863 or 03-2692-9031 or log on to www.ironmanlangkawi.com.my. Deadline for foreign entries is Feb 15.

Langkawi 2006-01-26