The site of the 11th race in the IRONMAN U.S. Series, Chattanooga, Tennessee will lure athletes with its dramatic scenery, idyllic weather and low-key southern charm.

IRONMAN Chattanooga will begin with a point to point, 2.4-mile swim in the Tennessee River with ample spectator vantage points alongside the city's famous Riverwalk. Athletes can look forward to a fast, down-current swim. The bike course (116 miles) will head south of town and do two loops in North Georgia with scenic farmland and mountain views. The two-and-a-half loop, 26.2-mile run course will showcase beautiful downtown Chattanooga, Riverview and the North Shore. Overall, expect a fast, rolling course.

According to Chattanooga mayor Andy Berke, the city is already home to a thriving athletic community. "Chattanooga was a natural fit for this event," he says, adding that the race will introduce the city praised by hang-gliding and rock-climbing enthusiasts to a whole new breed of athletes. Berke says he looks forward to seeing how the IRONMAN event grows over the next few years as it builds upon the city's reputation as an outdoor adventure mecca.