PRESS RELEASE
The Nine Network, in conjunction with Kellogg’s Australia and Surf Life Saving Australia, announced today that it will be the exclusive broadcaster of the world-renowned Nutri-Grain IronMan and IronWoman Series starting January 18, 2014.
The IronMan challenge began in the early 1980s and bred sporting legends such as Grant Kenny and Trevor Hendy. Now some of Australia’s ultimate male and female athletes are following in their footsteps as they do battle in the surf and on the sand – paddling, swimming and running for over $400,000 in prize money and the honour of being named Nutri-Grain IronMan and IronWoman Series Champion.
In a new development supported by these extreme athletes, the 2014 series will be shorter and faster, creating new challenges in what is already a tough competitive environment. The endurance formats will be eliminated and the races will be conducted at three new locations known for big surf, starting in Margaret River in Western Australia.
Seven-time Nutri-Grain champion Shannon Eckstein hailed the new direction as something competitors have been asking for.
“For an athlete there’s nothing better than a new set of physical challenges. We are constantly pushing ourselves to achieve better results and I believe this new IronMan Series format will allow us to do that,” Eckstein said.
Graham Ford, Surf Life Saving Australia President, shares those sentiments.
“Ironman and Ironwoman racing is an inspirational part of the Surf Life Saving movement. It’s the best of the best and we’re looking forward to showing off the amazing capabilities of the men and women of our sport on Channel Nine,” he said.
Steve Crawley, Head of Sport for the Nine Network, said: “Australians love this sport, and the fans really admire the skill needed to compete in such a series. The fact that the race locations are targeting the challenging waves the athletes thrive on will ensure we deliver great television.”
Additional race information will be announced shortly.