MAZATLÁN, Mexico (March 16, 2010) – The sun shines bright on golden shores of Mazatlán, as seasoned athletes from around the world converge for the Annual Grand Pacifico Triathlon. The destination’s renowned Pacific coast beaches and calm, azure waters set the stage for two days of hot competition during this triple-event race, March 19 – 20, 2010.
Now in its 10th year, the Grand Pacifico Triathlon draws more than 1,000 competitors to this tourism hotspot from across North and South America, Europe, Africa and Mexico. Participants in this year’s event include athletes from the United States, Canada, Brazil, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico, among others.
“We are delighted to welcome world-class athletes and spectators to our beautiful city during this international event,’ says Carlos Berdegue, vice president, Mazatlán Hotel Association and Tourism Board. “Mazatlán is widely known as a premier host for major sporting events of all types, from annual fishing tournaments to beach volleyball and golfing championships. Visitors here during the Grand Pacifico Triathlon will find a vibrant destination, offering world-class facilities and warm hospitality.”
The Grand Pacifico Triathlon will feature three competitor categories, including the Sprint, Olympic and Elite race designations. In the most challenging Elite category, athletes will complete a 1.5-km ocean swim before pedaling 40 km on bicycles along Mazatlán’s scenic coastal promenade, finishing with a 10-km run through historic Old Mazatlán. The Sprint and Olympic classifications will encompass less challenging triathlon courses, with shorter time durations for each swimming, cycling and running component. For young athletes ages 9 – 15, the Grand Pacifico Triathlon also features a Children’s category, comprising a 300-meter swim, 8-km bicycle race and 1.5-km run for the finish line.
Throughout the two-day event, participants and spectators will enjoy a full schedule of daily activities, ranging from award ceremonies and cocktail receptions to cultural festivities. Gastronomic showcases will feature fresh seafood and authentic cuisine prepared by renowned local chefs.
“The Grand Pacifico Triathlon offers something for every interest and athletic level, from seasoned competitor to casual enthusiast,” Berdegue points out. “And with Mazatlán’s wealth of authentic tourism offerings, there is much to discover beyond the racing events. Spectators and participants can immerse themselves in rich culture, authentic cuisine and much more – all set against the picturesque backdrop of Mexico’s Pacific coastline.”
For more information on the Grand Pacifico Triathlon, including registration and a full event schedule visit the dedicated website at www.maraton.org or www.gomazatlan.com.
About Mazatlán
Mazatlán is located on Mexico’s Pacific Coast at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountains. As Mexico’s second largest coastal city, Mazatlán has nearly 600,000 inhabitants. The city is divided into two main areas: Old Mazatlán and Zona Dorada or Golden Zone, with a seven-mile coastal road between the two. Mazatlán has an international sport-fishing reputation. Sites of interest include: the Angela Peralta Theater, Archeological Museum, Republic Plaza, Ocean Museum, Botanic Garden, San Jose Chapel and the world’s second-tallest lighthouse. Transportation is available via the local “pulmonías” or four-person open-air vehicles that have become a symbol of the city. Visit Mazatlán on the World Wide Web at www.gomazatlán.com.
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