200 Triathletes Pull Out of North Carolina Ironman Races in Protest of HB2

Organizer Gave Registrants Option of Transferring to Races in Other States

The economic cost of HB2 continues to add up for North Carolina, as more than 200 triathletes have pulled out of upcoming Ironman competitions in Raleigh and Wilmington in protest of the law. 

Ironman, the Florida-based organizer of the competitions, recently sent an email to those who’d registered for the North Carolina events, giving them the option of transferring to races in other states free of charge. 

“As many of you are aware, the state of North Carolina recently approved a bill that has raised the concerns of many, including us at Ironman,” the organization wrote. “While we plan to move forward with our races in Raleigh and Wilmington, we recognize that some of you may no longer wish to race in North Carolina.”

In a statement to The Charlotte Observer, Ironman added: “Ironman is an all-inclusive sport and we will continue to always provide an arena for all individuals to pursue their goals and dreams of becoming an Ironman.” 

On SlowTwitch.com, a popular forum for triathletes, one user commended Ironman’s decision to go ahead with the North Carolina competitions but give registrants the option to transfer. 

“Governments get a lot of taxes from athletes or spectators who travel for events like this. Money is politics,” the user wrote. “I suspect WTC [World Triathlon Corp.] would like to do something in protest, as many other companies have done, in support of their employees, but also want to support the athletes who have a variety of opinions and goals and with whom they also want to preserve a long-term relationship. Giving athletes a choice accomplishes both tasks.” 

One North Carolina resident wrote that although he strongly opposes the law, he still plans to participate in one of the local competitions — wearing a “Dump HB2” T-shirt. 

“I don’t plan to let Pat McCrory and his cronies ruin my fun, and all the work of the organizers — it’s not their fault,” the user wrote. “I love this state, and hope those guys would stop being such bigots.”

Another user said although he opposes HB2, no other races fit his schedule. 

“We will just not spend any extra time there, because that gives NC more of our money,” the user wrote. “Do you think the port-a-potties on race day are going to be gender specific? We wouldn’t want to break the law, now.”

 

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