BALTIMORE, March 9, 2004 - Triathlantic Association announced today the addition of the Steelman Duathlon to its 2004 race roster. The June 27^th event is the first race Triathlantic Association has ever sanctioned with USA Triathlon (USAT), providing duathletes with an additional race in which to obtain national ranking eligibility. The Steelman also presents athletes in the mid-Atlantic with the opportunity to compete in the only Formula 1 Olympic distance race in the region.

In order to qualify for a national ranking, athletes must compete in at least three USAT sanctioned races per season. In response to athlete demands, Triathlantic has partnered with USAT to sanction the Steelman Duathlon, providing duathletes with an additional qualifying race centrally located in the mid-Atlantic region, cutting down on travel expenses and making qualification more readily accessible.

“Having one of Triathlantic Association's high-quality races sanctioned with USAT will have a huge positive impact for the multi-sport athletes in the mid-Atlantic region,” commented Greg Sabo, USAT Duathlon Commission-Chair. “There are many duathletes in the mid-Atlantic who have not ranked nationally because excessive travel is required to participate in three USAT duathlons. By providing duathletes with an additional qualifying event located in the center of the mid-Atlantic region, athletes will not have to invest their time and money into travel in order to achieve a national ranking.”

The Steelman Duathlon is scheduled to take place at Stansbury Park in Baltimore, Maryland on Sunday, June 27, 2004. This Formula 1 style duathlon, defined as a 5-leg bike-run event, is the only race of its kind in the mid-Atlantic region, providing athletes with a unique event for 2004. The 2-mile run, 13-mile bike, 2-mile run, 13-mile bike, 2-mile run combination will be staged on a closed, multiple loop course with views of the Baltimore Harbor and Chesapeake Bay. The flat course will create an exciting race that provides optimal viewing for spectators. A minimum cash purse of $2,000 will be available to the top finishers in each age group as well as top finishers in the separate elite wave. To register online visit Triathlantic Association's Website: www.triath.com.

“Triathlantic is thrilled to work with USAT to serve athletes by providing them with an additional qualifying race in the mid-Atlantic region,” commented Brad Jaeger, president and founder of Triathlantic Association. “We are anticipating a large turnout for the Steelman due its unique combination of distances. Once again, Triathlantic is providing a one-of-a-kind event atmosphere that connects both athletes and spectators with the thrill and fun of multi-sport competition.”

About Triathlantic Association (www.triath.com)
Founded in 1988 by former triathlete Brad Jaeger, Triathlantic Association is recognized as the East Coast's premier multi-sport event management organization. The non-profit organization strives to connect participants and spectators with the thrill and fun of multi-sport competition. Its proven track record for creating expertly organized events has earned it a reputation for excellence among athletes, sponsors, and event directors alike. In its 16-year history, Triathlantic Association has organized more than 400 multi-sport events ranging from triathlons, duathlons, adventure races, and youth events to mountain bike races, track and field meets, in-line skate races and swim meets. Triathlantic Association is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland and resides on the web at www.triath.com.