Dubai: Current Ironman Triathlon world champion Frederik Van Lierde has confirmed he will be back to bid for an Abu Dhabi International Triathlon hat-trick next year.
The Belgian won his second consecutive season-opening Abu Dhabi title this year, before going on to win four more events on tour and ultimately clinching the world title in Hawaii, ending six years of Australian domination. He now hopes another strong start in Abu Dhabi on March 15 will have a similar effect on his forthcoming season.
“Abu Dhabi holds a special place in my heart as the event was the springboard for me to go on and become world champion,” Lierde said. “The event, the city and the people always welcome me with open arms, and the support we get is fantastic.
“Next year, I hope to claim my third victory in Abu Dhabi. The event is never easy, as the elite field is always so strong, but I know that a win in Abu Dhabi can push me to new heights, so I will be fully prepared.”
The fifth Abu Dhabi International Triathlon offers three course distances; the 223km-long course (3km swim, 200km cycle and 20km run), the half-length short course (1.5km swim, 100km cycle and 10km run) and the sprint course (750m swim, 50km bike and 5km run). Both the short and the sprint events can be run as a team relay.
Athletes interested in joining the fray can visit www.abudhabitriathlon.com. Entry fees for the long and short distances are Dh695 and Dh475 respectively, while the rates for the sprint course are Dh275 for individuals and Dh440 for teams. The fee for the team relay is Dh1,022. Last year, 2,000 athletes from more than 50 countries took part in the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon.
