January 26, 2010 – The 11th Annual Henderson Economic Development Awards held on January 21st at the Ritz-Carlton awarded the Silverman Triathlon the Outstanding Special Event Award for Tourism Impact in 2009. The following is an excerpt from the presentation and as published “In Business – CRE Special Supplement.”
Silverman Triathlon Bike Rider
Every November for the past five years, the Nevada Silverman Triathlon brings athletes from all over the world to experience the City of Henderson from all different views, whether it is in the water, on a bike or on foot.
Silverman, a race organized by Frank Lowery of Lowery’s Multisport, has been branded the toughest course in North America by six-time Hawaii Ironman Champion Dave Scott. The full-distance triathlon features a 2.4-mile swim in Lake Mead, a 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run that boasts a 2,000 foot elevation gain.
In just a short time, the Nevada Silverman has become an international phenomenon. This year, nearly 1,000 athletes participated in the grueling competition, representing all 50 states and 15 different countries. Additionally, race organizers partnered with Operation Rebound and the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF) for the Operation Rebound Silverman Half Relay for the second year in a row.
The race allowed participants to form relay teams while supporting the men and women of the armed forces. Some of the teams had the opportunity to race with an injured veteran of Operation Rebound, an organisation that supports disabled veterans.
Silverman attracted more than 10,000 spectators who not only enjoyed the race, but also the newly enhanced free health and wellness expo.
Nevada Silverman provides nearly $4 million in non-gaming economic impact to the City of Henderson. Lowery has made Nevada Silverman a world-class race, allowing Henderson the opportunity to be the host location for the International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Championships in 2011.
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Frank told me the 2011 ITU event could attract 5,000 -6,000 athletes and over 30,000 spectators. Economic impact to the city could triple that of 2009. This event will need full Henderson Community Support. ARE WE UP TO THE TASK?
Our hat is off to Frank and entire crew for a job well done. The 112-mile bike course uses about 7-miles of the River Mountains Loop Trail through East Henderson and the Trail Partnership has sponsored the Bike Course Aid Station #10 for five years.,,,rmltman
