WORLD RECORD BONUS

It created a buzz and got hearts pumping for different reasons last year, so it’s back again in 2008 – the $AUD50,000 world record bonus.

IMG and Eventscorp Western Australia are proud to announce the bonus will continue at the 2008 Ironman Western Australia Triathlon on Sunday 7 December.

The men’s world record is held by Belgium’s Luc Van Lierde in 7:50:27, which he performed at the height of his career in 1997 in Germany.

The women’s fastest time is owned by the legendary Paula Newby-Fraser in 8:50:53.

Ironman Western Australia is considered the ideal event for elite competitors to chase the world record, with the fast, flat course wind-protected for much of the distance.

Many consider Ironman Western Australia to be the fastest Ironman course in the world, and the return of the $AUD50,000 bonus will ensure another world-class field at the Event.

PROFESSIONAL PRIZE MONEY

There is equal prize money for Professional Male and Female athletes (US$50,000) paid down to tenth place, subject to Ironman rules which entail the 3rd to 10th place getter professional athletes needing to finish within 10% of the finish time of the 2nd place getter for both male and female. Due to drug testing results payment for prize money can take up to six weeks. Prize money winners will receive instructions at the Awards Function, and a letter detailing the method of invoicing IMG for the prize money - this is dependent upon the residential status of the competitor, and their Australian GST status. All non-resident prize money payments will be subject to the applicable withholding taxes. International professional competitors should be aware of the Australian Tax laws in respect to payment of prize money and withholding tax and the need for a work visa and the need to obtain an Australian Business Number and Tax File Number.