The ITU World Triathlon Series will return to Abu Dhabi in March featuring more than 100 of the world's best triathletes competing for qualification points for the Tokyo Olympics. Organisers said they expect more than 3,000 participants from 55 countries to tackle the gruelling course on Yas Island for the March 5-7 event, the opening event on the ITU calendar. Aref Al Awani, general secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC), said: “We are proud to welcome back the ITU World Triathlon Series to Abu Dhabi for the sixth year, and are looking forward to another thrilling and intense race weekend in March." The capital will also stage for the first time stage the Para Triathlon World Cup where elite para-athletes will look to book their place for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. Al Awani said the addition of the Para Triathlon World Cup follows the success of the triathlon race at last year's Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi, in which 22 athletes of determination from 14 countries took part. He said it was part of ADSC's commitment to inclusivity through triathlon. "This year we are excited to include a Para Triathlon World Cup for the first time in the event’s history," he added. "After the successful integration of the Special Olympic World Games in 2019, this addition to the event schedule shows our continued commitment to creating sports events that are truly open to all. We are looking to welcome a range of para-triathletes, both amateur and elite, to participate in Abu Dhabi, alongside welcoming back elite athletes and over 2,500 amateur triathletes.” This year's Abu Dhabi triathlon weekend includes include a variety of races for amateur triathletes, with participants able to join in Super Sprint, Sprint, and Olympic race categories – either as an individual or as part of a relay team. Gary Marescia, event director of the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi, said that the three-day festival will offer "something for everyone". “We are working hard to ensure we take the sport to a wide range of audiences, which is why we have introduced duathlon race categories this year – a great first step into the sport for those who might want to get a taste. “The event continues to evolve and grow on so many levels, and we can’t wait to welcome participants and spectators from around the world to experience the best of Abu Dhabi once again.”
