Carol Housaman of Woodbridge, VA has qualified for the Ironman Triathlon World Championship on October 19, 2002 in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, located on the Big Island. More than 50,000 triathletes from more than 50 countries annually attempt to qualify for the world's most famous endurance event.

The Ironman consists of a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike, and a 26.2-mile run, which must be completed in the allotted time of 17 hours. Training for this event typically requires 18 to 24 hours per week for six to eight months to develop the stamina and endurance needed to complete the 140.6-mile event.

The Ironman Triathlon began in 1978 with only 15 competitors. Its explosive growth required race organizers to implement qualifying procedures in 1983. The race field is limited to 1500 contestants due to the championship nature of the event.

Carol Housaman qualified at Ironman Lake Placid on July 28, 2002 She scored third place in her age group, 40-44, with a time of 11:41:58. In addition to her training, she is a full-time Mom with three boys, and her husband is an Ironman triathlete as well.

For more information contact: Priscilla Fraiegari, Ironman Triathlon World Championship, P.O Box 1608, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688-1608, Phone (727) 942-4767 ext. 320, Fax (727) 942-1987, or via e-mail: Priscilla@ironmanlive.com.