Today's Edition
KHALED AL KHAWALDEH (ABU DHABI)
Hundreds of triathletes from the UAE and around the world are set to descend on Sir Bani Yas Island, which will be the stunning backdrop for a new triathlon - the Challenge Sir Bani Yas on April 5-6.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, the event offers not only the first long-distance triathlon in the Middle East, but also hosts races for athletes wishing to take part in middle and Olympic distance races, as well as a variety of community races for all ages and abilities.
The middle and Olympic distance races are recognised qualification events for the World Triathlon Championships 2025 in Australia.
For athletes and couple Lottie Lucas and Felipe Azevedo, two triathletes who have called the UAE home for over a decade, the race is a chance to put the country on the triathlon map.
"Events like this are attracting top athletes (including former World Champions!) to visit the UAE and showcase the region as an excellent place to train and live," Lucas told Aletihad.
"Hopefully, this inspires other members of the UAE community to come to spectate and get involved in one of the community events too."
Lucas and Azevedo are currently both ranked first in the country and will represent Team UAE in the gruelling long-distance race that consists of a 3.8km swim, a 180km cycle and a 42.2km marathon.
The couple say they are looking forward to experiencing Sir Bani Yas Island, which boasts a wildlife sanctuary.
"The island will create an exciting race atmosphere amongst athletes and spectators, as the majority of people will be staying there for three days. This creates an exciting atmosphere in the build-up and post-race. As this is the first time the race has happened, no one really knows exactly how the course and weather conditions will play out on race day," Azevedo said.
"The terrain will add some additional challenge on the bike course, which may also create some interesting dynamics against the other competitors. We are hoping the wildlife won't interfere with the race but will add to the excitement and thrill."
Lucas says she is excited that many of the athletes who they coach and train with will be competing in the race.
She advised athletes who are competing to be wary of the temperatures.
"Staying hydrated and cool is the priority, as the weather conditions are expected to be very tough. It is a 10.30am race start, meaning that we will be racing at the hottest part of the day," she said.
"It takes many years of consistent training to be fully prepared for such a race. When you are physically prepared and showing good numbers in training sessions, it should translate to confidence and being mentally ready to race."
Azevedo said the couple would be going all out for a podium finish.
"As it is a 'home' race for us, it gives us extra motivation to push more in the race and to hopefully fight for a good result to make the UAE proud," he said.
In addition to the long distance, middle distance and Olympic distance races, the community are open to friends, family and island visitors of all ages and abilities.
