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Dubai capable of hosting world class triathlon, Ironman champion says

Jason Metters is confident Tri2Aspire's three-day training camp at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi will pave the way for a Standard Chartered Marathon-like triathlon that could become the envy of the world.

  • By Duane Fonseca, Staff Reporter
  • Published: 23:52 March 25, 2009
  • Gulf News

Dubai: Jason Metters is confident Tri2Aspire's three-day training camp at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi will pave the way for a Standard Chartered Marathon-like triathlon that could become the envy of the world.

Tri2Aspire are conducting the camp in conjunction with reigning World Ironman champion Craig Alexander and the camp, starting today, is set to include open water swimming, timed bike trials and runs, question and answer sessions on nutrition and race strategy and a sprint distance triathlon.

"The camp will give all levels of triathletes, whether first timers or those looking to lose a bit of weight and the few hoping to get into competitive triathlons, the opportunity to train alongside Craig," said Metters, director of Tri2Aspire.

"The triathlon is the fastest growing sport in the world because rather than just running, it gives people the opportunity to cycle, run and swim. People don't have access to much top level racing and we're hoping to give people that opportunity. What we're trying to do is raise the awareness of the sport and have something like the Standard Chartered Marathon staged here.

"A triathlon of that standard [is possible]. The sport is making inroads and will help showcase Dubai to the world and I don't think we're too far away from a major competition coming to town."

Australian Alexander, who won Singapore's Aviva Triathlon before heading to Dubai, added: "Dubai has all the right attributes required to stage a world class marathon& we've seen from the organisational skills that go into making the Standard Chartered Marathon a success that an event like the triathlon can go on successfully."

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