Triathlon Legend Signs Up for Laguna Phuket

Australian Chris “Macca” McCormack, the two-time Ironman World Champion acclaimed as one of the most successful athletes in triathlon history, has signed up to compete in the Laguna Phuket Triathlon (LPT) on 25 November and Ironman 70.3 Laguna Phuket a week later on 2 December 2012 - in a move that significantly boosts Laguna Phuket’s global triathlon status.

Macca – an outspoken as well as hugely successful figure in the sport – has won 200 races around the world since 1993 with 12 Ironman victories, more than any other male competitor, and he is the only triathlete ever to be Olympic Course and Ironman World Champion.

He’s broken eight hours in the full Ironman distance four times and is the only man to break it more than twice.

A five-time International Triathlete of the Year title holder, 39 year-old Macca has won 76% of his career events, finishing on the podium 88% of the time.

And in addition to his career victories he was also voted the “World’s Fittest Man” by sports broadcaster ESPN.

His appearance at LPT and Ironman 70.3 Laguna Phuket will be his debut on the island.

Chris McCormack said, “I’ve heard so much about Laguna Phuket over the years but have never managed to make it there – I’m really looking forward to finally get there and race in this iconic triathlon location.”

In LPT, Macca will be up against a top field, led by defending three-time Champion Massimo Cigana of Italy and including American Ironman Chris Lieto.

Lieto will also be a threat in the 70.3, but a potential head-to-head for Macca with fellow Australian Ironman legend Craig Alexander has been averted with Alexander’s withdrawal due to injuries sustained in a bike crash at the recent Noosa Triathlon.

“Macca is the one “legend” who has yet to race in LPT – dubbed the “Race of Legends” - so we’re absolutely thrilled that he’ll be here for the first time to compete in both our events,” said Debbie Dionysius, Assistant Vice President of Destination Marketing, Laguna Phuket. “To welcome such a legend of the sport is a true honour and his presence will be a massive boost for us.”

Separately, Laguna Phuket has confirmed it will continue to host a half iron distance triathlon in 2013 - following World Triathlon Corporation’s announcement that Ironman 70.3 Laguna Phuket will be discontinued after this year’s race - with details expected to be unveiled soon.

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