KEY POINTS:
New Zealanders will outnumber overseas competitors for the first time in next month's New Zealand Ironman in Taupo.
A record 619 New Zealanders have confirmed their participation after entries closed on Friday, forming more than half of the 1120 participants from 37 nations who will race on March 3.
The previous New Zealand record tally was 596 last year.
The international numbers (501) are significantly down this year, which organisers had expected after last year's race was seriously affected by a storm.
Event director Jane Patterson was pleased with the continued local expansion.
"The growth of New Zealanders in the event is partly mirroring the growth of the sport of triathlon in general," Patterson said.
"We have worked hard since the move to Taupo (eight years ago) to make it a better and more enjoyable race. This is a wonderful destination, the support is excellent and it is a more user-friendly course that has made the race more achievable."
The event has gained an additional 10 qualifying spots for the Ironman world championships in Hawaii, meaning there are 80 athletes who will qualify for Kona.
- NZPA
