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 Surftech at the Ford Ironman Arizona Sunday, April 13, Surftech took part in the
2008 Ford Ironman Arizona event held in Tempe, Arizona showcasing the sport of
standup paddling to the triathlete community and leading the 2.4 mile swim
segment of the race.
Paula Newby Fraser, 8-Time Ironman Triathlon
World Champion and triathlete coach with Multisports.com, worked with Surftech's
team to lead the pro division, where top finishers completed the leg in just
over 48 minutes. Starting 15 minutes later, the huge field of amateur athletes
was lead by Surftech standup paddlers with the top swim finisher beating the
pros time with a finish in just over 47 minutes.

For many of the 2500 athletes, Surftech's
involvement in the event was their first introduction to standup paddling. Their
positive response mirrored the original excitement of the Multisports.com team,
who played an instrumental role in activating Surftech's involvement in the
event. "It's an amazing workout", comments Heather Fuhr, 2008 Ironman Hall of
Fame inductee, "You're just working your core the whole time". Heather and the
coaches at Multisport.com are regularly using SUP's (standup paddle boards) in
training, a testament to their value as an incredible full body workout and
optimal cross training activity for swimming. Unlike the often grueling
routines undergone by triathletes, SUP's offer a fun, social and challenging
activity while providing a rigorous core workout to supplement their regular
training.

Due to restrictions, only a limited number of
athletes had the option of trying out boards at the Tempe event, but those who
did were visibly impressed. "It's so much fun, and such a great workout!",
commented Megan Flanagan of Austin Texas who won her age group in Tempe in her
first ever Ironman event. " I can't wait to get a standup board back home to
train on". Other athletes and local community members eagerly checked the boards
out at the event booth and worked with Surftech's crew to determine the best
option and size for their specific needs. With the resounding positive response,
Surftech will take part in next months Ford Ironman 70.3 (half Ironman) in
Orlando, Florida, offering competitors and local community members alike their
first time trying the fastest growing sport on the water.

Check outhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Izd6G62A4UA to learn more about
standup paddling as a cross training exercise or learn about Surftech's line of
standup paddleboards at www.surftech.com
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