(St. George, UT) - Saturday, more than 2,000 athletes will compete in the second annual Ford Ironman St. George which features a scenic swim, bike and run course throughout Washington County. Ford Ironman St. George, one of nearly 30 Ironman events worldwide, features a swim at Sand Hollow Reservoir and bike and run courses with spectacular views of downtown St. George, Snow Canyon and Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.

The 2010 Ford Ironman St. George champions, Austrian Michael Weiss and Canadian Heather Wurtele, have returned to defend their titles against an impressive professional lineup, including Ben Hoffman, Maik Twelsiek, Meredith Kessler and Jodie Swallow. The athletes, represent 48 states and 26 countries, will compete for a professional prize purse of $75,000 and 65 age group qualifying slots for the 2011 Ford Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i, on October 8.

In addition to the race on Saturday, the 2011 Ford Ironman St. George will also feature a Kids Fun Run for children 12 and under Friday, May 6 in Town Square. Registration will open at 5:00PM for 1-mile race beginning at 6:00PM the 200-meter race starting shortly after that.