"Top 10 Most Anticipated Races in the World for 2010" Sells Out

Subaru Banff International Triathlon Just Five Weeks Away

BANFF, AB, Aug. 5 /CNW/ - The first ever Subaru Banff International Triathlon is just five weeks away and race organizers have announced that as of the end of last week the race is completely sold out. Registration for the much anticipated September 11, 2010 race opened February 25, 2010 and just days later nearly half of the 750 race spots had been filled.

"We knew this race would draw this kind of excitement - Banff has a magic about it and this event provides an opportunity for the participants to experience the park" said Paul Regensburg, senior coach and partner, LifeSport Coaching and Events. "We are also very proud to organize the inaugural event during the 125th anniversary of Banff National Park - we believe there is a strong connection with the park in terms of healthy outdoor pursuits for all ages."

Two triathlon distances will be offered - the Olympic distance capped at 500 participants and the shorter Sprint capped at 250. The race has attracted some of the world's top triathletes with the majority of participants being recreational athletes of all abilities.

The stunning course is expected to be a circuit highlight for racers. The race will begin with the swim at Two Jack Lake, followed by the cycle which wraps around the scenic Minnewanka Loop and in to the town of Banff. The run will take racers through town following the banks of the Bow River and the race will finish downtown on famous Banff Avenue with the iconic Cascade Mountain as the backdrop to the finish line.

Athletes will be coming from Canada, The United States, Australia and New Zealand to take part in the triathlon and racers range from 19 to 68 years old, with 35 being the average age.

The Banff Triathlon is the only event in the series taking place in a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Environmental care has been paramount throughout the organizing stages and the race has been carefully planned to have low impact on the park and non-race participants.

Visit www.triseries.ca/banff for more information on the Subaru Banff International Triathlon.

About Banff Lake Louise Tourism

Banff Lake Louise Tourism is a destination marketing organization for the Town of Banff, Community of Lake Louise and Banff National Park. Supporting over 800 businesses, our mission is to engage visitors in unrivalled, remarkable experiences with our membership. For media inquiries, please contact Tulene Steiestol at [email protected], www.banfflakelouise.com.

About LifeSport Coaching and Events

The Subaru Western Triathlon Series (formerly the Subaru West Coast Triathlon Series) is operated by LifeSport Coaching and Events, a Canadian-based company utilizing a team of certified coaches, experienced athletes and skilled mentors that work with all levels of athletes in the pursuit of sports and personal excellence. The Subaru Banff Triathlon is the fifth race in the Series which includes Shawnigan Lake, New Balance Half Iron in Victoria, Vancouver and Sooke.

For further information: Tulene Steiestol, Senior Manager Media Relations, Office: 403-762-0290