This weekend, Abu Dhabi hosts the start of the 2016 ITU World Triathlon Series season with a sold out second edition of the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi, on 5 March. Some 2,200 competitors, including a number of the world’s elites, and amateurs, will tackle ‘the Middle East’s most prestigious triathlon against the backdrop of the UAE capital’s stunning Corniche.’
Following a strong demand for race spots, the local organizing team note that the event is now officially sold out.
“The ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi will launch this season in style,” said Gary Marescia, Race Director of the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi.
“We look forward to welcoming the best triathletes in the world to Abu Dhabi as they compete for line honours on the road to Rio. Spectators are in for a treat and should ensure they are at the race village on March 5th to experience racing of the highest order.”
Local and international entrants will join a professional field on Abu Dhabi’s iconic Corniche. Competitors from around the globe, spanning 67 nationalities and including 130 of the top elite men and women from 55 countries, are preparing to participate in one of the region’s key mass participation events.
“The exceptional quality of the entry list and participation numbers confirms that Abu Dhabi is the perfect starting event on the ITU World Triathlon Series calendar,” continued Marescia.
The triathlon will be headquartered at the Abu Dhabi Sailing & Yacht Club on the Corniche Breakwater, where a spectator-friendly race village will feature a huge 1,000-seater grandstand overlooking the finish line, bike park, ‘Friends and Family’ area, refreshment kiosks, big screens to follow the action on course and a special Kids Zone.
The elite race will see a swim start off the pontoons used by the 2014/15 Volvo Ocean Race, with both the top men and women on the ITU World Series rankings competing for podium places and all-important Olympic qualification points.
Spectators are also encouraged to witness Abu Dhabi’s brightest young aspiring triathletes compete in the World Triathlon Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon and Aquathlon; a fun event aimed at encouraging youngsters to get active. Starting from Abu Dhabi Sailing and Yacht Club on Friday 4th March, there are three entry categories: ‘Tiny Triathlete’ – a 50m swim and a 100m run (5 – 8 years), ‘Junior Aquathlon’ distance featuring a 200m swim and 1.5K run (9 – 15 years), and ‘Junior Triathlon Super Sprint’ which consists of a 375m swim, 10K cycle and a 2.5K run (11 – 17 years).
