Going Out: Swim, cycle and run around Dubai in a test of fortitude

Denzil Pinto 19:59 02/11/2015
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  • Cycle 90km to Dubai International Endurance City after a 1.9km swim at JBR.

    More than 600 people have signed up for the Dubai International Triathlon but there’s still time to join them ahead of tomorrow’s deadline.

    On Saturday, November 14, intermediate and advanced-level athletes will tackle a 1.9km swim at Jumeirah Beach Residence, followed by a 90km bike ride to Dubai International Endurance City (DIEC). Completing the course is a 21.1km run around the latter venue.

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    With fantastic venues and perfect climate, it is no surprise that triathlons are widely popular in the UAE. Last year’s event saw more than 1,000 participants and this month’s edition looks set to be another success.

    “The entry numbers have been encouraging so far and we’ve had 600 sign up,” said Paul Venn, race director.

    “With a few days to go until registration closes, we are on track of where we want to be but urge people who are still interested to sign up as soon as possible.”

    Participants can compete as individuals with age categories ranging between 18 years and 65-plus, or as a team. Given the triathlon will be tense, Venn suggests that beginners should participate as a team with every member doing one discipline each.

    Final push: A 21.1km run will complete the course.

    “The Dubai International Triathlon requires a lot of practise and experience,” he said. “I would not recommend someone who is trying out triathlon for the first time enter individually. Instead, enter as a team of three and take turns to do each discipline. That will help them get experience and perhaps next year or the year after, they can enter as an individual.

    “If they are looking for someone to form a team, then Race ME, (organisers) are ready to step in and make that happen.”

    He added: “The team entries have been positive. We’ve had a lot of corporate companies sign up and that is great.”

    Venn, competing in triathlons for five years, has seen the number of participants grow and believes there are plenty of positives to gain from just taking part.

    “The sport is fast growing around the world, and not just in this region,” said Venn. “It’s one of those sports that people think is difficult but that is never the case. You  don’t have to be a supreme fit world-class athlete to do this. I’ve been doing this for five years, and I do this because it keeps me fit and active and it’s a really addictive sport.If you’re quite competitive, it’s the perfect sport for you as the facilities are second to none and are world-class.”

    What: Dubai International Triathlon
    Where: Various locations in Dubai, starting at JBR
    When: Saturday, November 14 from 06:30
    Contact: To register or for more information visit www.premieronline.com. Registration closes on Wednesday at midnight.

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