The Ironman USA Lake Placid

The Ironman Lake Placid, now in its 11th year, will field more than 2,500 participants. There are 45 local athletes competing.

The triathlon consists of three legs — a 2.4-mile swim around Mirror Lake, a 112-mile bike ride and a 26.2-mile run to finish up. There are 24 men and 15 women professionals competing in this year's race.

The 2009 purse is $50,000, with first place taking $8,500, $5,500 for second and $3,500 for third.

The Ironman Lake Placid is another chance for athletes to qualify for the Ironman World Championship. Seventy-two qualifying slots will be awarded to the top professional and age group finishers, according to the Ironman Lake Placid Athlete Information Guide.