LAKE PLACID, N.Y. (July 17, 2012) - IRONMAN is gearing up for the 14th edition of IRONMAN Lake Placid scheduled for Sunday, July 22, 2012, in Lake Placid. More than 2,800 athletes are expected to compete in the event, known as the oldest IRONMAN in the continental U.S. and as one of the most popular events in the sport.

Sunday's race will not only bring an impressive pro lineup showcasing well-known athletes in the field like Americans Andy Potts and Hillary Biscay, as well as Australian Pete Jacobs, but will also a feature a list of age-group competitors with a range of backgrounds and experiences, offering spectators an incredible look into the sport. While New York is the most represented state in the race, there are athletes from 44 other states and 23 countries from around the world, ranging in age from 18 to 75.

Over the course of 17 hours, athletes will test their physical and mental limits as they race through Lake Placid and will rely on spectators and local residents to cheer them along their journey to the finish line. The athletes will take on a unique course that includes a beautiful swim in Mirror Lake, a challenging bike through the Adirondacks and an equally challenging run, with a transition and finish line located on the Olympic Speed-Skating Oval.

We ask for your cooperation and understanding as you travel around town on race day, as many roads will be temporarily closed to accommodate the 3,000+ participants and spectators. The routes were chosen to highlight the various areas that we feel fully showcase the unique setting of Lake Placid. For more detailed road closure information, please visit http://ironmanlakeplacid.com/files/2012/07/LP_TrafficImpact_7.3.pdf.

IRONMAN Lake Placid offers a total professional prize purse of $25,000 and 50 age group qualifying slots for the 2012 IRONMAN World Championship, taking place on Oct. 13 in Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i. Additional information about the race, including a map of the official course and parking details, can be found at www.ironmanlakeplacid.com.

Media inquiries can be directed to Patrick Alberts at 813.525.0482 or Patrick.Alberts@ironman.com.

About IRONMAN Lake Placid
One of more than 30 events in the global IRONMAN Series, IRONMAN Lake Placid is known as the oldest IRONMAN event in the continental U.S. and features one of the most beautiful courses on the circuit. The two-loop swim course takes place in Mirror Lake, followed by a unique transition in the Olympic Speed-Skating Oval. The 112-mile bike leads athletes along state, county and local roads while passing breathtaking vistas of the Adirondack Mountains and the New York countryside. The spectator friendly marathon runs by downtown Lake Placid four times and features tree-lined river scenery.