DirectRooms.com - Langkawi Holds Search for Malaysia's Ironman in February 2011

Online, January 17, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Ironman Malaysia Triathlon 2011 will be staged on the island of Langkawi in February and sees contestants competing for the fastest times in three disciplines. The race consists of a 3.8km swim, followed by a 180.3km cycle ride before athletes run to the finish line with a 32.2km marathon.

Over 300 athletes will be heading to Langkawi to take part in the event which is likely to include last year's winner Marino Vanhoenacker, coming back to defend his title along with Belinda Granger who has won three consecutives titles in Malaysia.

Of all the destinations on the Ironman circuit Malaysia is described as one of the most gruelling due to the hot conditions racers have to compete in; with temperatures normally in the upper 30s and lower 40s Celsius.

Spectators travelling from hotels in Langkawi will be lining areas of the Kuah Bay area where the swim takes place, before setting off to catch the cycle which has some steep climbs although is predominantly flat. The run then finishes again in Kuah Bay at the Jetty Point by the large eagle statue.

Lek Boonlert, marketing head at DirectRooms.com commented: "With the increased number of competitors and spectators in Langkawi for the race places in hotels are set to be limited. Attendees will need to book rooms early to be sure of finding availability."