Sport In Profile UK Issue 10 | Page 20

british triathlon FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/SPORT_IP British Triathlon T riathlon is a family friendly, lifestyle sport that is enjoying an increasing level of popularity with growth of around 14% over the past year. With the Olympics just a year away and the World Triathlon Leeds event due to take place on 11-12 June the future is looking very bright. World Triathlon Leeds 11-12 June 2016 The World Triathlon Leeds will represent the pinnacle of triathlon competition in the UK with the world’s finest athletes taking part. It will also provide an opportunity for athletes to compete on the same course as Olympic heroes Ali and Jonny Brownlee who will be competing in their final event before the Rio 2016 Olympic Games. Sunday 12th June will see more than 5,000 triathletes compete across the course beginning with an open water swim in Roundhay Park. They will then cycle around Leeds before completing the run to finish in the city centre. The amateurs will be followed by the world’s best triathletes and both races are sure to be a thrilling showcase of endurance and strategy in front of thousands of local residents who are sure to help create a unique Yorkshire atmosphere. Press Officer Helen Gorman, of the British Triathlon Federation spoke of the event and what it will mean for the sport as a whole, saying, ““The event in Leeds promises to be a great event, the city is experienced in hosting major sporting events and they see 20 Issue 10 the Triathlon as being a key event for them and they’re putting a lot of energy and effort into making sure it is the best it can be. “The dates have been announced now and it will take place a couple of days after our Olympic team has been announced which will bring added excitement. “The event will be a perfect opportunity for people to come along and watch the event with Grandstand seating available. The good thing with Triathlon is that you can join the route anywhere you like and the Leeds event will be city centre based so you can combine watching the Triathlon with other activities if you wish. “You’ll be able to watch for free and there’s also the option to take part. There are entry opportunities for amateurs, beginners and some children’s events on the Saturday. It’s a great opportunity for anyone that is intrigued by Triathlon to come and have a look and see what it is all about.” For more information please visit leeds.triathlon.org