IRONMAN 70.3 California started out as an IRONMAN in 2000. Two years later it was turned into one of the first IRONMAN 70.3 events and helped launch the popularity of the distance.

Oceanside, California offers triathletes a chance to race in the city that birthed the sport in the early 1970's in Mission Bay. Oceanside is located at the northern end of San Diego's North County, which includes the beach communities of Del Mar, Cardiff, Encinitas, and Carlsbad—home to a mixture of surf, triathlon, and beach culture. Just half an hour south lies the city of San Diego, with its world-famous zoo, parks, and other attractions to fill a spring break vacation. Just two hours away from the local mountains, skiing and snowboarding are other options.

Originally from: http://www.ironman.com/triathlon/events/americas/ironman-70.3/california.aspx#ixzz2pgVt1EKL