Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi International triathlon returns for its second edition on March 12 next year, not only expecting double the number of participants but a sprint course one third smaller.
It is hoped the shorter course will attract newcomers to the sport.
The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, which is organising the event, is hoping to attract more than 1,500 international athletes to the event.
This year a total of 800 triathletes from 30 countries competed in the event.
The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority said it hoped to see 75 world elites take part in the $250,000 (Dh918,000) 223km headline event "The Pure Power race".
This would comprise a 3km swim, 200km cycle and 20km run through Yas Marina Circuit and many other of the city's landmarks.
Greater audience
The second, half-length 111.5km option, with 1.5km swim, 100km cycle and 10km run, was also still on the cards for teams or individuals.
A third addition to the fixture, a new "sprint" course, with a 750metre swim, 50km bike and 5km run, completed as part of a team or alone, was intended to make the sport more accessible to entry-level competitors and increase local uptake in the discipline.
Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority Deputy Director General Ahmad Hussain said: "The addition of a shorter, more accessible course for next year opens up the sport to a far greater audience and allows those wanting to get into triathlon but who may have felt overwhelmed by the physical enormity of the longer distances, an opportunity to be part of one of the world's fastest-growing sports and compete with the elite."
Hussain also said the Authority wanted to enhance television coverage, finish-line family activities and community engagement with the event.
"We want Abu Dhabi to be a destination that triathletes train and compete in as well as enjoy with family and friends," he said.
Athletes interested in taking part are invited to visit the www.abudhabitriathlon.com website for more information.
