Ironman Announces New Location in Michigan, Renews in Augusta

The Ironman Group has announced that Frankfort, Michigan, will serve as a multiyear host for the Ironman 70.3 Michigan triathlon, relocating from Traverse City. In addition, the company announced that its race in Augusta, Georgia—one of many that were canceled in 2020—would return through 2025.

The Ironman 70.3 Michigan triathlon will be staged on September 12, 2021.

“Following in the success of bringing an event to Traverse City a couple years ago, we’ve seen an incredible interest from athletes to visit and race in northern Michigan,” said Keats McGonigal, head of operations, North America for The Ironman Group. “We are excited to continue to host an event in this beautiful region and to call Frankfort our new home. We feel that Frankfort and the surrounding areas will deliver an unparalleled race week experience while being the perfect destination for both athletes and their families alike.”

Frankfort sits along the shores of Lake Michigan and is located 40 miles from Traverse City.

“We can’t wait to welcome Ironman 70.3 back to northern Michigan,” says Trevor Tkach, CEO and President of Traverse City Tourism. “Our organization is honored to continue to support the race and the athletes who train for this incredible feat. The new course will be an exciting change for athletes, and spectators will be able to enjoy exploring the beautiful town of Frankfort in addition to the surrounding Traverse City region.”

Back to Augusta

Meanwhile, Ironman in partnership with the Augusta Sports Council has agreed to extend the partnership for the Ironman 70.3 race in the Georgia city through 2025.

“For over a decade, Augusta has continued to be one of the most popular destinations on the Ironman 70.3 circuit,” said Elizabeth O’Brien, managing director North America for The Ironman Group. “The tremendous support the event receives from the entire community showcases the city of Augusta’s desire to be a true sporting destination that also embraces the Ironman spirit.”

Located along the banks of the Savannah River, Augusta is the second largest city in the state.

“Hosting Ironman 70.3 Augusta provides us with the opportunity to showcase Augusta, Georgia as a sports destination throughout the country and globally,” said Bob Evans, chairman of the Board of Directors for the Augusta Sports Council. “Augusta has long been recognized for golf, but Ironman allows us to expand our attraction to other world-class athletes and visitors.”