Last few places remain for 2010's first Ironman 70.3 Triathlon in South Africa

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Anyone dreading the metabolic effect of 2009's various end-of-year feasts and already thinking up New Year fitness regimes to compensate may find their interest equally piqued and pacified by the thought of participating in the first Ironman 70.3 Triathlon of 2010, whose late registration period closes on November 27 ahead of the race on January 17.

The South African triathlon consists of a 1.9km swim, a 90km cycle ride, and a 21.1km run, making a distance of 113km or 70.3 miles (hence its inclusion in the Ironman 70.3 ranking races).

The race is centered on the Orient Beach complex in East London, a city on the southern coast of South Africa. Registration for the event costs €170 ($255) for internationals and R1150 for African athletes.

Triathlon itself is often considered to be one of the world's most complete sports, as each component is highly cardiovascular whilst focusing on different muscle groups.

Registration for the South African Ironman 70.3 Triathlon: ironman703.co.za
Triathlon training plans: beginnertriathlete.com