For two-and-a-half years, Daniel Hughes has presided over all matters Triathlon in Abu Dhabi, watching the sport’s popularity grow and grow.
Aside from the ITU Abu Dhabi Triathlon, numerous satellite events throughout the year give people the chance to hone their pace, including a juniors-specific event in the Abu Dhabi Aquathlon Series.
SO WHAT IS AQUATHLON?
An aquathlon is a multisport event that involves swimming and running. The aquathlons in Abu Dhabi start with the swim and finish with the run and the distances for each race vary depending on age groups for the juniors and ability for the adults.
Generally they fall into categories of Sprint – a 750m swim and 5km run – or Super Sprint – a 375m swim and 2.5km run. Junior competitors who can’t manage the Super Sprint can try either a 100m swim and 750m run or 200m swim and 1.5km run.
HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM TRIATHLON/DUATHLON?
Triathlon and duathlon are also multisport events and each also involve cycling. A Triathlon is a swim, cycle and then run, while a duathlon is a run, cycle, run. Aquathlon is swimming and running.
WHERE CAN I DO AQUATHLON IN THE UAE?
There are a number of aquathlon series around and the most popular and biggest audience is in Abu Dhabi. The 5 Star Aquathlon series is held each year at Emirates Palace (October and March) and the St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort (December). Plus there is the largest junior aquathlon also held three times a year with the first race this weekend this Saturday. We’ve got more than 200 kids registered for the event at Al Bateen Beach. The next two races are in November and then April 2017. For training, check out the Abu Dhabi Triathlon club and join in the swim, bike and run sessions.
WHAT AGE GROUP IS AQUATHLON OPEN TO?
This weekend’s event is open to kids as young as 4 with the now famous Tiny Tri event and up to 18-years-old. The 5 Star Aquathlon has a category for 4 years of age to 90!
WHY IS AQUATHLON GOOD FOR ME?
The best part about the events is that they help people set important fitness goals and then bring the community and families together to celebrate achievement. With age groups for everyone and set in beautiful venues on the shore of Abu Dhabi, it’s even fun just to be a spectator.
WHAT ARE YOUR TOP AQUATHLON TRAINING TIPS?
Consistency – The more regular you train, even short sessions, the better your body responds.
Holistic – Don’t forget the importance of recovery, good nutrition and healthy mindset for stronger results.
Community – Training is more fun and you get better results when you train in a group session with others to provide encouragement. Plus you get to make new friends.
