At half the distances of a full Ironman -- a 1.2-mile (1.9-kilometer) swim, 56-mile (90-kilometer) bike ride and a 13.1-mile (21-kilometer) run -- the Ironman 70.3 series is the fastest growing triathlon series in the world.
1 Mix in the sugar, stirring until dissolved. 2  Let cool until lukewarm. 3  In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm water. 4  Let stand until creamy, about 10 minutes. 5  In a large bowl, combine the milk, yeast mixture, shortening and 3 cups flour. 6  Beat until smooth. 7  Add salt and rest of flour, or enough to make a soft dough.
Mix 2 cups flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Beat 1 1/2 sticks softened butter and 2/3 cup sugar until fluffy, then beat in 2 eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Slowly beat in the flour mixture and 1/3 cup apple cider in alternating batches. Divide among 12 prepared muffin cups and bake 20 to 25 minutes.