Memphis, Tenn. –The inaugural St. Jude Ironman 70.3 Memphis triathlon in 2020 will be hosted by Shelby Farms Park on Oct. 3, 2020, organizers have announced.
The 1.2-mile swim competition will be at Hyde Lake in the 4,500-acre urban park. The 56-mile cycling portion will wind its way through Fayette and Shelby counties. Racers will then return to Shelby Farms along the park’s gravel trails.
“Memphis will allow Ironman to deliver a world-class experience for athletes and their families,” said Keats McGonigal, senior regional director for The Ironman Group. “Memphis thrives as a tourism destination along with renowned medical care services for children through St. Jude and now we get to show it off as a triathlon destination.”
Officials at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital hope the event will bring in $500,000 for their mission next year. Memphis Tourism president Kevin Kane estimates the local economic impact from the triathlon could be $10 million.
Competitors at the event will vie for slots to compete at the 2021 Ironman 70.3 World Championship in St. George, Utah. Registration begins Dec. 10.
