Elite stars throw support behind Abu Dhabi Junior Tri

Sport360 staff 18:31 09/03/2014
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  • Start them young: The Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon gives kids the chance to experience the sport.

    In a bid to provide a pathway for the region’s budding triathletes to enter the sport and encourage healthy living, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi) has teamed up with National Health Insurance Company, Daman through its ‘ActiveLife’ initiative, to host the Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon on March 14.

    The event will give aspiring youngsters the chance to meet the sport’s greatest stars – Olympic gold medallist, Alistair Brownlee, and 2013 Ironman champion, Frederick Van Lierde.

    Brownlee, creator of the Brownlee Tri Series which encourages more people in the United Kingdom to take up the sport, is a huge supporter of grassroots triathlon events such as the Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon.

    “Last year I was impressed with the energy and commitment shown by everyone involved in the junior race from kids to parents," he said. "It’s amazing to see how triathlon is flourishing in the region and with a lot more participants this year it’s clear that the sport has a bright future here.”

    Over 200 kids are expected to race the Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon from the East Plaza on Abu Dhabi’s iconic Corniche.

    Fifteen-year-old Hannah Burns was the first to register this year after a fantastic finish at the inaugural 2013 event saw her take home a silver medal.

    “I’m looking forward to this year’s race after having enjoyed competing here last year with my friends and had a fantastic time,” said Hannah. “This year I have my eye on the gold medal and meeting my mentors in sport – Alistair and Frederick.”

    Another world-class triathlete committed to showing his support at the Junior Triathlon next weekend is Van Lierde.

    Having taken up triathlon at the age of 17, Van Lierde is quick to stress the importance of starting early and highlights the influence triathlon has on youngsters. 

    “I wish I’d taken up triathlon earlier than I did," he revealed. "I am a great advocate of the sport and what it can do to kids at this age. Triathlon is a way of life as well as a sport and the past 17 years have taught me so many important lessons and values so I encourage kids to at least try it once; that’s all you need to get hooked!”

    For those wanting to cheer on their kids, friends and family members at the race there will be a Fans Village, on the Corniche East Plaza, filled with action-packed activities, money-can’t-buy giveaways and tons of prizes to be won all day.

    In addition to all the race action, face painters and Capoeira (Brazilian martial art) performers will be on hand throughout the day to entertain kids and adults alike.

    The Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon is offering two race formats for each of its target age groups: 9-12 year olds are eligible for the aquathon, which is similar to last year’s format and consists of a 200m swim and a 2km run.

    Competitors in the second age group, from 13-16 years old, have the chance to compete in a 300m swim, 9km bike ride and a 2.5km run. Both events can be completed solo or as a team relay.

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