Ironmen and ironwomen to take on Perth's best surf beaches this summer

Perth's famous surf beaches will be home to a new surf life saving event launched today by Tourism Minister Kim Hames.

"The Indian Ocean Classic, a new public participation event, would see athletes compete in an ironman style-event against some of the sport's legends," Dr Hames said.

"The race, which involves surf ski, boards, swimming and running will take place at some of Western Australia's most famous beaches including Trigg, Scarborough, City Beach, Swanbourne and Cottesloe.

"The Indian Ocean Classic will be open to the general public and people can race as individuals or enter in teams of four. Organisers say entries will include teams of past ironmen legends, celebrities and local sports stars."

The Minister also announced that the Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Ironman Series and Ironwoman Series would return to WA for the first time in 15 years, thanks to State Government support, through Eventscorp.

"The Ironman and Ironwoman series is recognised as one of the world's most gruelling ocean-based competitions and last year each race attracted an average television audience of more than one million," he said.

"Hosting a round of the competition for the next four years gives us the opportunity to showcase Western Australia's extraordinary coastline to a huge TV audience and help further promote the sport in the State."

The elite race will follow a similar course to the Indian Ocean Classic.  Dr Hames said the State Government, through Eventscorp, was proud to support both events for the next four years. He congratulated event director and Ironman legend Guy Leech for developing both the Ironman race and the Indian Ocean Classic in partnership with sports marketing and management company, SEL.

The Indian Ocean Classic will be staged on Saturday, January 28, 2012. The Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Ironman Series race will be held on Sunday, January 29, 2012.

Minister's office - 9222 8788