If you live in or around Maryland, you likely know about the Eagleman Half-Ironman Triathlon held on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. But if you are from outside the area, you may not be privy to one of triathlon’s best-kept secrets.

Often heralded as the opening race of the triathlon season, Eagleman draws a number of professional triathletes looking to qualify for the Kona Ironman World Championships in Hawaii. And the 2009 race is no different.

Twenty-seven professional triathletes will descend on Cambridge, MD, for their chance at Kona. Heading the list is Ironman 70.3 World Champion Terenzo Bozzone. The ARX-sponsored pro heads back to Eagleman looking to take care of some unfinished business after a penalty in 2008 cost him the race.

Bozzone is joined by fellow male pros Paul Amey (2008 Eagleman winner), Richie Cunningham, Mike Caiazzo, and Chris McDonald, among others. Included in the female professional race are 6-time Ironman Kona Champion Natascha Badmann, Mirinda Carfrae, and Desiree Ficker, just to name a few.

To learn more about the 2009 Eagleman Half-Ironman Triathlon, visit www.tricolumbia.org/Eagleman/. For more information on Terenzo Bozzone and ARX, visit www.fastertomorrow.com.