The location of the 2013 Ironman Canada was leaked a little earlier than World Triathlon Corporation (WTC) would have liked but it has been confirmed that Whistler will be the new host.

Penticton Mayor Dan Ashton is disappointed WTC chose to have the event on the same day as Challenge Penticton.

"I think this predatory direction that WTC has taken will affect both, it's a shame. You know the South Okanagan-Similkameen with the base in Penticton for the new Challenge Series, we have a proven record it's an incredible area and it's incredibly well respected by all the athletes from around the world that come."

Kelowna and Huntsville, Ontario were both in the running to host the event which will take place August 25th, 2013.

Ashton says if the race wasn't scheduled for the same time as Challenge Penticton, Kelowna and the valley could have benefited.

"Had they moved that event to somewhere near the start of the summer the valley could have been known world wide as a triathlon valley and with that competition and you put in the Apple Triathlon and you put in a WTC race and a Challenge race and the race that's in Osoyoos already we could have been world renowned for triathlon events."

After a 30 year relationship with Ironman Canada the City of Penticton decided to part ways and be the home for North America's first Challenge Family event.

Whistler Tourism spoiled WTC's big announcement by posting a webpage declaring them the new home.

After a flurry of comments and speculation on Twitter the page was quickly taken off of the site and Ironman Canada along with WTC announced via Twitter that Whistler was indeed the new location.

Anita Sthankiya -Penticton