Abu Dhabi Triathlon alters course

Abu Dhabi: The third annual Abu Dhabi International Triathlon will feature an enhanced course to accommodate what organisers Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) hope will be a record-breaking field of 2,100 athletes.

To cater to demand, one of the sport's most picturesque courses has been slightly altered, with the swim relocating to the Abu Dhabi public beach, while the cycle route will now start from the heart of the Corniche in the East Plaza, with competitors riding up Saadiyat Island and around the spectacular Yas Marina Circuit. The run course remains unchanged for the March 3 event.

"The decision to continue evolving the course was made to improve the entire athlete experience and build on the solid foundation of the last two years," said Faisal Al Shaikh, events manager at ADTA.

"The upgraded course gives returning athletes new challenges while keeping the beautiful setting along the city coastline that makes the this event one of world's best and most talked about."

To date more than 1,000 athletes have pre-registered. ADTA is hoping to build on the success of last year's event, which boasted 61 of the world's best triathletes and an overal 1,500 entries.

Athletes interested should visit www.abudhabitriathlon.com.