Many local athletes are disappointed that they won't be able to compete in a nearby ironman challenge next year.

The Syracuse Ironman 70.3 has been discontinued. Around 2,000 people competed at the event on Jamesville Beach each year.

It was also a qualifier for bigger races. Organizers posted an apology on their website, but for athletes nothing will take away their memories.

"When you cross that finish line and you know that you have done this particular course there's a certain level of pride that comes from knowing that not only have you done 70.3, you did Syracuse's 70.3," said Triathlete Sarah Conger.

The news isn't keeping these local athletes from training.

There is a similar event people can sign up for in the North Country; Ironman Lake Placid will be held in September.