_ 2017 IRONMAN 70.3 Triathlon - Syracuse:

Syracuse is the epicenter of the Northeast, located within 300 miles of nine major cities, including Boston, New York, Montreal, Toronto and Philadelphia. The friendly university town has a variety of activities to offer athletes and spectators during its beautiful summer months.

Terrific fishing along the historic Erie Canal, numerous lakes and parks, and an active performing and visual arts scene combine to make Syracuse an unexpectedly vibrant and accessible race. The city's proximity to the Finger Lakes region opens up even more opportunity for exploration. 

Since the inaugural race in 2010, the event has attracted professional athletes such as Jodi Swallow, Nikki Butterfield, Angela Naeth, Joe Gambles, Peter Jacobs, Paul Ambrose and TJ Tollakson. Taking place in June, it's a perfect build-up to the popular IRONMAN Lake Placid. 

"If you want a Lake Placid experience, without a doubt IRONMAN 70.3 Syracuse is your race," says Greg Borzilleri, IRONMAN Lake Placid race director. "The rolling hills on the bike and the great local support make it a fun day, and the park at Jamesville Beach in Syracuse is just like a mini Lake Placid village."

The race begins in Jamesville Reservoir, where athletes will complete a 1.2-mile, single-loop swim. The 56-mile bike course winds through the Highland Forest recreational area, taking athletes through the picturesque, rolling countryside of Onondaga, Madison, and Cortland counties. Athletes will finish their race with a 13.1-mile run in and out of Jamesville Beach County Park, offering plenty of shade to accompany the challenging rolling hills. 

IRONMAN 70.3 Syracuse is also a Regional IRONMAN TriClub Championship race. In addition to "members only" special events on site, athletes who are part of a triathlon club or team earn bonus points for their club towards the prestigious IRONMAN TriClub Annual Podium Award.