With support from the South African based Standard Bank, Ironman South Africa has been elevated to be the African continental championships of the World Triathlon Corporation and will thus join Melbourne, Australia (Asia-Pacific Championships), Frankfurt, Germany (European Championships), The Woodlands, Texas (North American Championships) and Florianopolis, Brazil (Latin-American Championships) as the 5th big money, big Kona points prestigious event.

This race in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa takes place on March 29, 2015 and will offer a prize purse of $150 000 for Pros, increased KPR qualifying points and 75 age group qualifying slots to the Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

“Triathlon – and Ironman in particular – exemplifies all the qualities that Standard Bank stands for: hard work, dedication, endurance and a commitment to be in it for the long-haul,” said Ben Kruger, CEO of Standard Bank Group. “Ironman is a highly aspirational brand that encapsulates all the qualities that are universally admired – grit, determination, the desire to succeed and the will to inspire those around you. These factors, coupled with the phenomenal growth in triathlon and Ironman over the last few years, is why this partnership makes for a compelling brand awareness proposition.”

Standard Bank will continue to support other sporting, music and arts events, but will also be involved with the Ironman 70.3 Buffalo City race on January 25th, 2015, the 5i50 Bela Bela Triathlon on March 29th, 2015, and the 5i50 African Championships in Ekurhuleni on November 1st, 2015 as a title sponsor.