Courtesy: USAT

The Spirit of Racine Triathlon in Racine, Wis., will welcome the USA Triathlon Elite Long Distance Triathlon National Championship on Sunday, July 23.

The race is the sole qualifier for U.S. elite/professional triathletes seeking to represent the United States at the ITU Long Distance World Championship, November 19 in Canberra, Australia. It is also an official age group qualifying race for the 2006 USA Triathlon HalfMax National Championship, September 16 in St. Louis, Mo.

The event - which has sold out at 1,620 competitors - features a.1.2 mile swim along Lake Michigan's pristine lakefront, a 56 mile bike ride on the Modine Manufacturing Bike Course in the scenic countryside of Racine County and a 13.1 mile run on the All Saints Run Course through Racine's quaint, historic neighborhoods.

With its scenic course, spirited people and a competitive field fighting for a share of the $25,000 prize purse, this is an exciting triathlon for first timers and seasoned veteran competitors. All professionals MUST be licensed professionals and hold a current pro license from their country's governing body.

The weekend also features a two-day expo and a sprint race on Saturday.

More details can be found at http://www.spiritofracinetri.com