Courtesy: press release

Michellie Jones, the most decorated short distance triathlete in history; Desiree Ficker, a new favorite on the Ironman circuit and Andrea Fisher, also a top finisher at the Ironman distance, are among the professionals slated to compete at the inaugural RYKA Iron Girl Texas Triathlon on July 23, 2006.

The event, consisting of a 500M Swim - 20K Bike - 5K Run will take place at the former U.S. Olympic Triathlon Trials Course in Irving, TX, (Las Colinas) home to the Dallas Cowboys. Iron Girl, the all women's event-based brand was launched two years ago and started with just two events. The 2006 RYKA Iron Girl National Event Series now includes eight events ranging in distance from 5K/10-Mile running events to triathlons and duathlons. Women can become an Iron Girl in locations such as Boston, MA, Seattle, WA, Tempe, AZ, Denver, CO and Clearwater, FL. More than 500 athletes are expected to compete at the RYKA Iron Girl Texas Triathlon.

With an Olympic silver medal under her belt, Jones has successfully mastered a variety of distances. In her relatively short career, she boasts victories at the 2004 Ford Ironman 70.3 California and Ford Ironman Florida as well as a win at the 2006 Ford Ironman Arizona. Jones also placed second in her debut at the 2005 Ford Ironman World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

Ficker, a newcomer to the scene a few years ago, achieved top finishes at Ford Ironman Arizona in 2005 and 2006. More recently, Ficker took third place at the Eagleman Ironman 70.3 event and second at the inaugural Baja Ironman 70.3 event.

Fisher is an 18-time All America swimmer and has been a staple on the triathlon circuit. Fisher boasts strong performances at races around the globe such as: Ironman New Zealand, Ford Ironman USA Lake Placid, Ironman Korea, Ironman Australia and Subaru Ironman Canada.

Iron Girl's mission is for women to embrace a healthy lifestyle and aim to achieve their personal bests. The focus of the RYKA Iron Girl National Event Series is to provide women with a competitive platform; one that showcases the athletic abilities of seasoned athletes and novices alike. Fundraising efforts will benefit the Ulman Fund to help support young adults living with and recovering from cancer.

For more information on the RYKA Iron Girl Texas Triathlon, visit www.irongirltexas.com or www.irongirl.com.