The iconic Burj Al Arab will serve as the picturesque background for international triathlon stars and local athletes when they compete in the Ironman 70.3 Dubai this weekend.
Challengers will take to Jumeirah public beach for the inaugural race tomorrow (Friday), with more than 1,200 athletes already set to take part.
The race will start with a 1.9km swim along the beach near the Burj Al Arab before transitioning to the 90km bike course and then finally a three-loop run spanning 21.1km along the beach.
With the cycling venturing into the Arabian Dunes and consisting of a 45km flat road, it could be one of the fastest Ironman 70.3 bike courses on the circuit.
With the event offering 30 qualifying slots for the 2016 Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Australia, athletes will be keen to have a good showing.
The two biggest names in the field will be in action in the pro race, featuring Jan Frodeno and Daniela Ryf.
Frodeno, who captured gold in the men’s triathlon at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, became the first triathlete to earn both top honours in that event and win the Ironman World Championship in October, 2015.
Following a successful year for the German, the man they call ‘Frodo’ is gearing up for another run, beginning in Dubai.
“It’s super early in the year and this race I’m using as motivation to get out of the winter break,” said Frodeno.
“It’s been a tough few weeks and I don’t necessarily think it will reflect on my findings yet, but I’m still looking forward to racing and getting out there every day.
“I think it’s great that this region is very keen on promoting a healthy lifestyle and exercising. Sports provide not only an opportunity to get fit, but for integration, which is a big topic in a multicultural city such as Dubai.
“I’m just glad to be here and help get people active and coming out to race themselves.”
Ryf, meanwhile, is coming off winning the million dollar prize at the Nasser Bin Hamed Triple Crown series to cap a magical year.
“I’m really excited to be back here,” the Swiss 2014 and 2015 Ironman 70.3 World Champion said.
“It’s been 11 months since I’ve been here and it’s quite amazing what happened in those 11 months. It was a year I could never dream of.
“It’s not only the team spirit that’s really growing here, but the vision of His Highness Sheikh Nasser that we’re trying to give the people, to motivate people to get active.”
For those still wanting to enter the race, late registration can be done online or onsite today from 09:00 to 17:00. The entry fee is $400 for individuals and $500 for relay. To sign up and for more information, visit eu.ironman.com.
