ABU DHABI will welcome a record number of competitors and spectators from around the world for the fourth Abu Dhabi International Triathlon this March 2 and while the race day thrills will be the highlight for many, there is much more to explore and experience across the emirate.
Abu Dhabi is also fast emerging as a winter training base for athletes of all levels looking to escape the Northern Hemisphere’s colder months. The grass roots tri scene is maturing with a number of top clubs offering first timers and seasoned athletes a chance to hone their skills. A wealth of world-class training facilities are on offer in the emirate year-round, providing compelling stay and train packages for those wanting to ‘compete in the heat’.
Organisers of the $230,000 Triathlon have also been urging aspiring athletes with motivational stories to share their experiences for a chance to win a paid trip to the UAE capital to compete in the triathlon.
“Sport has always been a powerful tool in overcoming adversity and pushing the limits of mind, body and soul. Over the last three years, we have been continuously inspired by amazing stories of bravery, determination and kindness from athletes who have taken part in Abu Dhabi. We want to officially recognise the sport’s true heroes this year, and hopefully motivate others to embrace positive change,” said Faisal Al Sheikh, events manager, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), which is behind the event.
Now in its fourth year, Abu Dhabi is looking to attract more than 2,200 athletes from across the globe to compete, including many of the world’s top elites.
The 2013 Abu Dhabi International Triathlon will start with a sunrise swim in the Arabian Gulf’s shimmering turquoise waters off Abu Dhabi’s Blue Flagged public beach, before weaving through closed roads along the Corniche Beach, up to the spectacular Yas Island and around the Yas Marina Circuit – home to the annual Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – before returning to the heart of the UAE capital.