ELITE ATHLETE INFO

An entry and assistance policy for professional athletes will be implemented for the 2009 Ironman Western Australia. Set out below is the available assistance to professional athletes who are eligible to apply for the complimentary entry, accommodation and appearance fee packages.

To apply for the appropriate assistance or for further information, athletes need to email Shane Smith at shane@ironmanoz.com by August 1, 2009.

Pro Athlete Information

For Ironman WA, the Top 5 men and Top 5 women place getters from the previous year (2008) will receive a complimentary entry. An additional five (5) complimentary entries will be available to professional athlete licence holders. All professional athletes are encouraged to request a complimentary entry by August 1, 2009 for one of the slots. No further free entries will be provided after this date. All other entries will be at the general registration price with entries closing on October 23, 2009.

 Accommodation packages are available for the Top 3 men and Top 3 women place getters from the previous year (2008). An additional four (4) accommodation packages are available. All eligible athletes must request assistance by August 1, 2009.

In addition there will be five (5) appearance fee packages offered to professional athletes ranging from $500 to $2,500 at the discretion of IMG.  A limited number of airfares will also be available at the discretion of IMG.  Athletes who wish to be considered for this assistance need to apply before August 1, 2009.
 
 All professional athletes are to be registered for Ironman Western Australia by October 23, 2009.
 
 The professional pre-race meeting is mandatory. Athletes who do not attend this meeting may be penalized.
 
·At the time of entry it is mandatory to provide proof of your professional status from your governing organization (if not already provided).
 

Professional Prize Money

There is equal prize money for Professional Male and Female athletes (US$50,000) paid down to tenth place, subject to Ironman rules which entail the 3rd to 10th placed professional athletes needing to finish within 10% of the finish time of the 2nd placed finisher for both male and female.

Due to possible drug testing results payment for prize money can take up to six weeks. Prize money winners will receive instructions at the Awards Function, and a letter detailing the method of invoicing IMG for the prize money - this is dependent upon the residential status of the competitor, and their Australian Goods and Services Tax status.

All non-resident prize money payments will be subject to the applicable withholding taxes. International professional competitors should be aware of the Australian Tax laws in respect to payment of prize money and withholding tax and the need for a work visa and the need to obtain an Australian Business Number (ABN) and Tax File Number (TFN).

Please Note: The $50,000 World Record bonus will not be available at the 2009 Ironman Western Australia Triathlon