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June 21, 2007 (Tarpon Springs, FL) – Today, World Triathlon Corporation announces a new initiative where all domestic Ironman, Ironman 70.3 and Iron Girl events will reserve race number 179 for athletes racing for a charitable cause. The race number was made famous by athlete Jon Blais, who made Ironman history in 2005 by becoming the first athlete with ALS to complete the world’s toughest endurance event, the Ford Ironman World Championship, in Kailua-Kona, HI.
“The event always has been and always will be so important to me. When I am sitting in a wheelchair down the road, I will look back and know that I fought the great fight,” said Blais.
In a short time, Blais became an invaluable member of the Ironman family, opening eyes and hearts to the seriousness of ALS. After his participation in 2005, he returned to the 2006 event in a wheelchair to cheer on a fellow triathlete who was racing on behalf of the ALS cause. Although Blais passed away on May 27, 2007, his memory and the contributions he made to the sport will last forever.
Prior to being diagnosed with ALS, Blais was an avid triathlete and shared his passion for triathlon with activities such as mountain climbing and hiking. Blais applied his love for the outdoors to his profession, teaching students with special needs. Two years after his diagnosis in May of 2005, Blais founded the Blazeman Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting awareness of and fundraising for those battling ALS. The foundation continues to grow and has expanded this year to include Team Blazeman, a group of athletes called "Blazeman Warriors" who have committed to raising awareness and funding a search for a cure for ALS... so others may live.
“Jon inspired Ironman staff, athletes and spectators on many different levels. From his outlook on life and the wisdom he exuded while battling ALS to his passion for Ironman, the impact Jon made will stay with us for the rest of our lives. Indeed, he fought the great fight, and we will miss him,” said Ben Fertic, president of Ironman.
Athletes interested in racing with number 179 should contact the respective race director of the event in which they wish to participate. To learn more about Ironman/Ironman 70.3 events, visit www.ironman.com. Information relating to Iron Girl events can be found at www.irongirl.com. To become a part of Team Blazeman or learn more about Jon Blais and the war on ALS, visit www.alswarriorpoet.com and www.waronals.com. For media-related inquiries, contact Blair LaHaye at Blair@ironman.com or Jessica Weidensall at Jessica@ironman.com. Both may be reached at (727) 942-4767.
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