This beloved race has built a loyal athlete fan base thanks to its "old school" triathlon atmosphere. When the founder of the Buffalo Springs Lake triathlon created this event in 1990 as an Olympic-distance triathlon, the goal was simply to put on a safe, well planned, competitive race. A grand total of 91 triathletes gathered in the beautiful Yellowhouse Canyons of the Llano Estacado Plains of West Texas to compete on a very challenging course. The consensus? This spring-fed lake nestled among canyons was a natural triathlon venue.
After qualifying status was acquired in 1994, the number of participants continued to grow, and IRONMAN 70.3 Buffalo Springs Lake has earned a reputation as a very tough, challenging, and yet fair race. It's considered by many to be fantastic preparation for the heat and humidity of the IRONMAN World Championship in Hawaii, making it a mainstay on the race circuit. Some say good results here predict similar ones in Kona. Also, it has a tendency to foster great friendships among age group triathletes, and even legendary professionals.
The 1.2- mile open water lake swim takes place over a rectangular, counter-clockwise course with a beach entry. Athletes exit the water on a cement boat dock area, within 20 yards of the transition area. The bike course is a modified out-and-back course that takes competitors through farmland over a tough but partially shaded, scenic course. The long awaited finish is back at the Buffalo Springs Lake where family and friends are ready to celebrate with them as their grueling, yet rewarding day comes to an end.
There are 40 age group qualifying slots for the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada.
Pro Women:
Naeth Angela
Gregory Caroline
Seymour Jeanni
Tobey Kristyn
Frederiksen Helle
Barnett Lauren
Kristick Corrie
Shapiro Margaret
Noey Elizabeth
Spieldenner Jennifer
Mighdoll Michelle
Pro Men:
Scott Drew
Hillers Mark
Sepulveda Rodrigo
Thorne Joe
Ison Matthew
De Bruin Gerhard
Hall Benson
Reed Tim
Bowstead Mark
Marsh Brandon
Rapp Jordan
Hanson Matt
Serrano Francisco
Watson Jason
Umphenour Joe
Evoe Patrick
Johnsen Jimmy
Shearon Jonathan
Griffin Leon
Thomas Jesse
Polson John