http://auckland.triathlon.org en webmaster@triathlon.org Copyright ITU 2013 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/2012triathlon_world_champs_a_winner http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/2012triathlon_world_champs_a_winner#When:04:42:39Z Triathlon World Champs 2012 LTD and Triathlon NZ – for its hosting of last year’s Barfoot and Thompson World Triathlon Championships – was among those rewarded for excellence and outstanding achievement in sport and recreation in New Zealand at the annual Sport and Recreation Awards ceremony, held in Wellington on Monday night.  The Grand Finale is the most significant event on the world triathlon calendar – the last event in an eight-race series that decided the world champions for that year. In May 2010, Triathlon New Zealand, Auckland Council and NZ Major Events successfully bid for the right to host the Championships. The Auckland event widened participation by hosting a participation-based entry level event, as well as a Weet-Bix Tryathlon event for people aged from 7 to 99 years. An event goal was to attract 4,500 athletes. It attracted 5,208. There was a focused effort to make this event highly visible and to showcase Auckland. The event was marketed to participants and to spectators – both at the events and through media. A goal was to grow the event’s audience with non-triathlete fans, both attending the event and watching live television coverage. It captivated Auckland for three days and in terms of media interest, it was much bigger than just a sporting event. The event was also rated highly by participants and international organisers. Sport Waikato CEO and former All Black, Matthew Cooper received the prestigious C K Doig Leadership Award. The award recognises an executive sport or recreation leader who displays outstanding leadership in relation to their organisation or the sector as a whole. Matthew Cooper has led significant positive change to the delivery of sport and recreation initiatives in the Waikato region. As well as being an effective CEO of a successful Regional Sports Trust, Matthew is an influential figure in the Waikato community and led Sport Waikato to win the Regional Business Excellence Award as well as several other major achievements in 2012. Lifetime achievement awards were presented to Pat Barwick, a former international hockey player, selector, coach and administrator; Dave Norris, an Olympic long jump and triple jump representative, director of the Millennium Institute’s NorthSport Academy, and vice president of Athletics New Zealand; and Ivan Sutherland, an Olympic rower, Olympic selector, coach and chair of Rowing New Zealand. Awards were... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/age_group_and_social_athletes_shine_at_auckland_triathlon http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/age_group_and_social_athletes_shine_at_auckland_triathlon#When:04:42:39Z It was the day of the age groupers and the social athletes at the Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon in Auckland on Sunday as participants took to the course in sprint, standard, teams and paratri events. Fiona Crombie of Christchurch has followed Kate McIlroy into triathlons with instant success winning the women’s section of the standard triathlon. Like McIlroy Crombie is a former New Zealand 3000 metre steeplechase champion as well as winning national cross country and road titles. But now at the age of 30 she has decided to concentrate on triathlons. “It was great out there today. It is only my third standard tri so I wanted to see how it panned out. “I want to go further in the sport but it will take time. It is my first major one and lots can go wrong in triathlons, so it’s just about experimenting and see what to do in different circumstances,” said Crombie who finished with a sizzling 36m 49s clocking for the 10km. Sibling rivalry was the incentive all Matt Franklin needed to win the standard triathlon. “My brother Sam usually beats me but I’ve been training for the last four weeks for this, so it was easy out there today,” he said. “I’ve been doing triathlons for the last eight years and only started coming through in the last couple of years. I’ll probably move out to the half ironman but will stick with the standard until I get a bit older,” he added. It was the 20 year olds first win over his 21 year old brother Sam, Matt recoding 1h 58m 19s, nearly six minutes faster than Sam. “I’m pretty happy with that.” A pair of 14 year olds won the sprint triathlons. Daniel Hoy who was first coached by the late Jack Ralston was in great form winning the 750m swim, 20km bike and 5km run by a wide margin. “I had a pretty solid swim but a little bit back from the first person but I soon caught him on the bike on a couple of hills going through Queen Street and I held it on the run,” said Hoy. The Westlake Boys’ pupil will now reward himself with a holiday in England and a bit of a rest period before returning for the winter running scene of cross country and cycling. “I’ve been doing triathlons for two years now and enjoying it, I’m now coached by Nathan Richmond,” he added. Katherine Badham from Takapuna Grammar School was first through in the women’s sprint tri, helped over the... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/kiwis_go_top_five_but_haug_too_strong http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/kiwis_go_top_five_but_haug_too_strong#When:04:42:39Z Kate McIlroy and Nicky Samuels both went top five at the opening ITU World Triathlon Series event in Auckland today but were no match for the hugely impressive Anne Haug of Germany, who repeated her win from last October on the Auckland course in the first race of the ITU world series. Into the 10km run the race was down to four with Haug joined by McIlroy, Maaike Caelers of the Netherlands and Felicity Abram of Australia. Haug made a move with 2km remaining and went on to record 2h 8m 20s, three seconds ahead of Caelers. Abram held on for third and McIlroy was fourth in 2h 8m 43s. Haug who has now won her last three races on the international circuit said it was an amazing and fantastic run. “I didn’t expect that, but everything went perfect for me. I had that little bit of energy left but that last km I was tiring and I gave it everything and I was so lucky to reach the finish line.” Caelers worked hard on the swim coming through the 1500m distance in 19m 31s. “I stayed in contact on the bike and I didn’t expect to be running that fast on the run as I have done no speed work since Mooloolaba. “I was pushing and pushing over the last kilometre but just ran out of distance. I’m pleased with second though.” Abram worked hard early on the run back once McIlroy took over the pace dropped back and held on for third. “I’m happy with that I haven’t been on the podium for a very long time. After racing here in October I wanted to do well and podium and I did it today. “We all knew that Annie was going to go, I tried a couple of times, I’m moderately fit but not that fast,” said Abram. McIlroy said that the whole race was hard. “It would have obviously been nice to be on the podium. It is my second best result ever in a world triathlon series and I couldn’t ask for much better to be honest.” The 31 year old who was tenth at the London Olympic Games said that she tried to push the pace a bit on the run. “The girls were strong and classy and tick their legs over a bit quicker than me, so I had to settle for fourth,” she said. Nicky Samuels in fifth in 2h 9m 43s said the result was satisfactory being her first race of the season. “It took a while to warm up on the run and I just ran out of space at the end to catch Kate,” she said. Andrea Hewitt was never in the hunt throughout, which was not... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/dodds_goes_top_ten_in_auckland_gomez_imperious_again http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/dodds_goes_top_ten_in_auckland_gomez_imperious_again#When:04:42:39Z Tony Dodds was the best of the Kiwis as the 25 year old Wanaka triathlete bravely mixed it with the best in the world before finishing 7th at the Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon in Auckland today. The race was won impressively by Javier Gomez (Spain) as the world number 2 continued an amazing run that now has him unbeaten in four career starts in New Zealand. The 30 year old Spaniard was fourth at the end of the cycling section and won a furious battle with compatriot Mario Mola on the 10km run. The pair, Joao Silva (Portugal) and Dodds ran shoulder to shoulder for the first two and half kilometres before Dodds was forced to serve a 15 second penalty for a rules transgression in transition one and dropped off the hot pace. Gomez then put on the burners and moved into a commanding lead that he had no trouble holding to the finish. He finished in 1h 55m 51s, 12 seconds ahead of Mola with a further 19 seconds to Silva of Portugal. “It was great coming back here and winning again. It was a very good race and it felt very good – what else could I ask for with my team mate second a great day for Spain,” said Gomez. “He made me run fast and I felt good, but you never know, after he dropped it gave me more confidence. The win is good for motivation and the victory helps me think about the next one,” he added. “New Zealand has been good to me; I should buy a house here one day. It’s just great for the big races here.” Mola said he ran as fast as he could. “Javier is the number one and I’m really proud to be able to stay with him. I tried to stay in the second position and that was all I could do today, I’m of course really happy with that,” said Mola. Dodds lead the Kiwi’s home in a creditable seventh place in 1h 57m 11s, followed by Clark Ellice 11th, Ryan Sissons 14th 1h 58m 12s and Bryce McMaster 22nd in 1h 58m 50s. Martin Van Barneveld did not finish. Dodds said that the crowd really lifted him up after eighth on leaving the water and 11th after the bike. “The swim was where I wanted to be, the bike I was more than happy with that and hopefully I hurt a few people on the hills then the plan was just to go out for as long as I could with Gomez and the Spanish boys and I did that for nearly 3km and then blew to pieces. Hopefully in the next race I’ll last 5km and then 7km,” said Dodds. “I’m very happy to be the first Kiwi... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/gomez_cant_wait_to_return_to_favourite_course http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/gomez_cant_wait_to_return_to_favourite_course#When:04:42:39Z Javier Gomez is triathlon royalty. The smiling Spaniard has been on the world scene for the best part of a decade now and has spent many of those years racing shoulder to shoulder with a generation led by Bevan Docherty and Kris Gemmell and at the age of 30 is showing no signs of slowing down or following in Docherty’s footsteps into iron distance racing. And some ten years after he first appeared on the international scene at the Queenstown World Championships, he will on Saturday line up favourite to win the opening ITU World Triathlon Series race on Auckland’s waterfront. A two time world champion and silver medallist at the London Olympics, Gomez talks with genuine affection for a country many thousands of miles from his home in Spain. “New Zealand is a special place, one that I would like very much to travel for my holidays in the future, and spend a lot of time there,” says Gomez. “I have raced three times in NZ, first at the Queenstown World Champs in 2003 when I won the U23 title, then New Plymouth in 2008 when I enjoyed my best race of the season in winning, and then last year at the Grand Final in Auckland when I won again in a thrilling sprint, so it is definitely a great place with great memories of racing. But also I have made some great friends and it is a country that I really love.” Gomez and the elite men will race from Queens Wharf at 12.06pm on Saturday. The field is stacked with the best in the world with a strong German team including former Olympic champion Jan Frodeno and current world number 6 Stefan Justus, an impressive Russian contingent led by the Bryukhankov brothers (including world #7 Alexander) and the ‘49% Kiwi’ Laurent Vidal (France, world # 8) and leading Kiwi Ryan Sissons amongst the contenders. Click here for the full field They will all be wary of the Spaniard though who is in great form having won the ITU World Cup race in Mooloolaba a fortnight ago. Adding to the form guide is Gomez loves the course in Auckland, it is one he enjoyed immensely last year when out sprinting Jonny Brownlee to the line in the Grand Final. “Last year this was my favourite race, it is a challenging course with three hills per lap and one is very steep and it is technical as well in the heart of the city and the rain last year made it more difficult. I like those kinds of courses; unfortunately we have been doing too many flat courses, from roundabout to roundabout... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/you_can_still_come_play_in_the_city http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/you_can_still_come_play_in_the_city#When:04:42:39Z Online registration has now closed however you can still register for the following Tri Auckland 2013 events at athlete registration*; Open Tri - Sprint distance Open Tri - Standard distance Teams Tri - Sprint & Standard distance Twilight Swim Run 5km Brunch Run Paratriathlon *Athlete registration is located in The Cloud on Queens Wharf and is open; Friday 5 April - 12.00pm - 8.00pm Saturday 6 April - 9.00am - 5.00pm 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/tvnz_breakfast_team_to_take_on_triathlon_for_fun http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/tvnz_breakfast_team_to_take_on_triathlon_for_fun#When:04:42:39Z TVNZ’s Breakfast team are preparing to boldly go where ….. no Breakfast team have gone before! Toni Street, Rawdon Christie and Sam Wallace have committed to going from the couch to the Auckland CBD in the Barfoot & Thompson sprint triathlon on Sunday April 7, part of the weekend of action that includes the opening round of the ITU World Triathlon Series. And it is fair to say the fearless trio are not only going out of their comfort zone but they are representative of a wide range of New Zealanders who have already or are going to give the sport a go, putting aside nerves and any misgivings in an attempt at a team triathlon. Weatherman Sam Wallace is perhaps the ‘keenest’ of the three; he will bring the team home with a 5km run. “I was lucky enough to host the Triathlon on TV One last year, and I loved every minute of it,” says Wallace. “This year I’m giving it ago and really looking forward to seeing how I measure up. It’s really neat to be participating in an international Triathlon on the same course at the professional triathletes… and the cool thing is… anyone can!” Street is leading the team off with the 750m swim from Queens Wharf and admits that Sam is the one motivating the team to train harder. “The triathlon has been the hot topic of discussion at work, our weatherman Sam is cracking the whip to make sure we don’t ease up on the training!” Street has a little extra motivation as well, as she uses the event as part of her post pregnancy fitness programme. “I’m stoked we’ve decided to do the Auckland Tri, it’s certainly motivated me to squeeze in some training around looking after my baby.” Christie is the joker in the pack and typically deflects his efforts with humour, albeit at the expense of his co-host Toni. “The trouble with working with Toni Street is she gets me to do things I’ve never even considered doing before. I’ve never ridden a road bike, let alone entered a triathlon before, so whatever happens – I’ll blame her.” Wallace reinforces Christie’s role in the team, suggesting the front man might have a little extra on his bike for the 20km ride through the Auckland CBD. “I’m no triathlete but it’s been great doing it as a team. If you aren’t pulling your weight with the training your team mates give you a bit... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/elite_men_and_womens_start_lists_announced http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/elite_men_and_womens_start_lists_announced#When:04:42:39Z The official start list for the elite fields in the Barfoot & Thompson Auckland World Series Triathlon in April were revealed by the ITU late yesterday, with the men’s field featuring 2 of the top 3 in the world (6 of the top 10) and the women’s field featuring 3 of the top 4 (5 of the top 10) ranked athletes from 2012. The April 5-7 event is a festival of triathlon with a host of events for people of all abilities and backgrounds but the highlight for many will be the chance to see the best in the world ‘coming to play’ in Auckland with the elite races on the Saturday afternoon in the first round of the global series to find world champions. Dave Beeche, CEO of event organiser Upsolut Oceania says New Zealand sports fans are in for a treat. “We are going to see some of the most powerful athletes but also nations on the start line in Auckland next month with six of the top ten in the world lining up plus former world and Olympic champion Jan Frodeno (Germany). The Russian, German and French in particular are sending very strong men’s teams to Auckland, and of course we have the continued emergence of Ryan Sissons into the very best in the world as he leads the next generation of New Zealanders in the post London era. “The women’s field is headlined by a return of the podium from last year as Anne Haug (Germany), Gwen Jorgenson (USA) and Barbara Riveros Diaz (Chile) return. Add to that two top ten ranked New Zealanders in Andrea Hewitt and Kate McIlroy who both enjoy genuine chances of making the podium in front of their home fans and you have a great race. “The message we had last year was the athletes enjoyed the tough and challenging course, which is reflected in the quality of the field for an event that comes very early in the season after a busy Olympic campaign for most in 2012.” Headlining the men is Javier Gomez (Spain) who last year held of Jonathan Brownlee in a thrilling sprint for the line to win the ITU Grand Final on the same Auckland CBD course. Gomez will face strong French (Laurent Vidal, Tony Moulai), Russian (the Polyanskiy and Brukankov brothers) and German (Frodeno, Justus, Bucholz) teams, as well as the New Zealanders led by world number 19 Ryan Sissons (Auckland). The women’s field features the podium from last year’s ITU Grand Final with Anne Haug (Germany), Gwen Jorgenson (USA) and Barbara Riveros Diaz (Chile) all returning. The New... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/swim_bike_and_run_to_save_a_kiwi http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/swim_bike_and_run_to_save_a_kiwi#When:04:42:39Z Kiwi need your help to survive! Make your race count. We are proud to announce Kiwis for kiwi as our Official Charity! Kiwis for kiwi is working to protect kiwi and their natural habitat with the support of all New Zealanders. With every $200 you raise, you help Kiwis for kiwi to continue their amazing work and protect a pair of breeding kiwi from predators (like dogs, cats and stoats) for an entire year, giving their baby chicks a much greater chance of survival!     For more information on our Official Chairty Kiwis for kiwi and to make a donation please click here 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/new_open_and_teams_tri_bike_course_announced1 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/new_open_and_teams_tri_bike_course_announced1#When:04:42:39Z The new bike course takes in Auckland City's highlights, including racing up part of Queen Street! The following bike course applies to the Open Tri - Sprint, Open Tri - Standard, Teams Tri - Sprint and Teams Tri - Standard. Turn right out of transition onto Quay St, turn left onto Queen St, turn around at corner of Victoria Street West/Queen St and back down Queen St. Turn right onto Quay St, right at The Strand and left up Gladstone Rd. Turn right onto St Stephans Ave, then left down Brighton Rd. Left at Shore Rd, then left onto Orakei Rd, left onto Ngapipi Rd and then left onto Tamaki Drive. Follow Drive onto Quay St, then continue on at transition for next lap. After completion of the final lap, turn right into transition to complete the bike leg. Follow the links below for more information on the events available;  Open Tri - Sprint distance Open Tri - Standard distance Teams Tri - Sprint distance Teams Tri - Standard distance Twilight Swim Run 5km Brunch Run 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/enter_now_and_be_in_to_win http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/enter_now_and_be_in_to_win#When:04:42:39Z Enter the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon and go in the draw to win the SPECIALIZED VENGE COMP ROAD BIKE valued at $4800.                      The Specialized Venge Comp road bike is a pure race machine that combines the winning formula of weight, stiffness and aerodynamics, that keeps you ahead of the competition! For more details on the Specialized Venge Comp Road Bike click here   Bike Specs UCI-legal, FACT IS 11rAero Race Design, full-monocoque carbon frame with one-piece carbon OSBB/chainstay, internal cable routing, and tapered head tube. Smooth, precise Shimano 105 components and DT Axis 4.0 wheels are ready to race. UCI-legal, full carbon monocoque fork with 3:1 airfoil shaping and straight profile for best combination of aerodynamics and stiffness. Stiff, light, UCI-legal bladed carbon seatpost; pairs with Specialized BG Romin Comp with a shaped profile for max power and hollow CR-Mo rails for durability. FSA Gossamer Pro BB30 crank is stiff and light for excellent power transfer for efficiency on any terrain. To view Specialized's products visit  Follow Specialized New Zealand on Facebook here   Conditions Participants must enter one of the events of the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon event, online by midnight on Friday 29 March 2013 to go in the draw to win. The competition is valid to all participants that enter a Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon event (including Sprint, Standard, Team Relay Triathlons, Aquathlon or Fun run). If you have already entered you are automatically in the draw. Upsolut Sports Oceania will announce the winner at Prizegiving on Sunday 7 April 2013. If not present at prizegiving, the winner will be notified in writing on Monday 8 April. The winner will be determined by a random draw. The winner will be able to redeem their prize at their nearest Specialized bike store from Tuesday 9 April 2013. The winner can redeem the Specialized Venge Comp Road Bike prize or bike of same value (NZD $4800). The prize is not redeemable for cash. The competition is conducted by Upsolut Sports Oceania Ltd, 149-165 Quay St, Auckland City. 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/entries_now_open_for_april_2013 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/entries_now_open_for_april_2013#When:04:42:39Z Age Group Sprint Distance The Age Group Sprint distance tirathlon is open to anyone to enter and is   seen as either a great entry level distance for those new to big event racing, or a great test of your flat-out speed and aerobic capacity for the more seasoned racer! The Sprint distance course features a 750m swim, 13km   bike and 5km run.  Click here for race details Age Group Olympic Distance The Age Group Olympic distance triathlon is open to anyone to enter and is the signature distance for all ITU events. Course distance is 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run.  Click here for race details Team Relay Sprint Distance The team relay event offers you the chance to get your friends, family or workmates together and take on the challenge as a team. The relay is part of the Sprint distance race and features a 750m swim, 13km bike and 5km run. You can compete as a team of two or three athletes (male, female or mixed), where each athlete performs one or two legs of the race (swim, bike or run). Click here for race details Team Relay Olympic Distance The team relay offers you the chance to get your friends, family or workmates together and take on the challenge as a team. The relay is part of the Olympic distance race and features a 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run. You can compete as a team of two or three athletes (male, female or mixed), where each athlete performs one or two legs of the race (swim, bike or run).   Click here for race details Aquathlon The 'twilight' Aquathlon takes place on Friday night and features a short and sharp 750m swim off Queens Wharf, followed by a 3km run. Click here for race details 5km Fun Run People of all abilities and ages (over 8 years) can take on the challenge of the 5km fun run and race on the same city centre run course that the Elites will race on later in the day. With running as fast or as friendly as you want to make it, the 5km run is a two lap flat course (2.5km per lap). Experience the excitement of racing and finishing on the blue carpet like the Elites! Click here for race details 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/auckland_2013_race_schedule_announced http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/auckland_2013_race_schedule_announced#When:04:42:39Z The race schedule for the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Auckland event on 5-7 April 2013 has just been announced and entries open tomorrow, Friday 7 December at midday. You’ll find an exciting mix of old and new races and distances to choose from, with something for athletes of all abilities. To view the Event Schedule click here Just like last years hugely successful ITU World Champs, all races will take place right in the heart of Auckland City. And make sure you check out the Age Group bike course; this year it features an amazing new section that takes you up and through the iconic Auckland Domain. More scenic and more challenging all in one! There’s also the all new 5K fun run on the Elite run course, and a new team format for the sprint and standard distance so you and your mates can really put your individual strengths to the test! Races featuring in Auckland in April include; Elite Age Group Olympic Distance Olympic Distance – Teams relay Age Group Sprint Distance Sprint Distance – Teams relay Aquathlon 5Km Fun Run ENTRIES OPEN THIS FRIDAY 7 DECEMBER AT MIDDAY (NZT).  Get in quick as entries are limited! 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/economic_return_a_further_boost_for_triathlon_world_champs http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/economic_return_a_further_boost_for_triathlon_world_champs#When:04:42:39Z The Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final exceeded targets in the economic returns to Auckland and New Zealand, as detailed in an independent report presented to Triathlon New Zealand and the Local Organising Committee (LOC). The event itself was praised by the International Triathlon Union, with record numbers of participants, a smooth delivery of safe events in front of large and appreciative crowds live at the venue and watching worldwide on television; the ITU lauded the event as one of the best World Championships ever hosted.  The event attracted a record 5,208 participants and a global audience estimated by the ITU to be in excess of 25 million, with those competing and watching live on course endorsing the event as being of ‘world class standard’ in a post event survey. Event CEO Dave Beeche says the report confirms the economic value of such an event to the city and the country. “From an event delivery point of view things went extremely well towards delivering our goal of the best world champs ever, thanks in no small part to the cooperative approach of key stakeholders and Triathlon New Zealand. “To exceed our forecasts and targets from an economic point of view is also extremely rewarding and did not occur by accident. It was always our aim to maximise the returns to Auckland and New Zealand with a high level of engagement with our participants and in particular the international visitors. It is through the combined efforts of the LOC and agencies such as ATEED and New Zealand Major Events that we have been so successful.” ATEED General Manager Destination (Acting), Jennah Wootten congratulated the local organising committee on the successful management and delivery of the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland. “This is an excellent result and return on investment for Auckland and testament to the combined effort that an event of this scale requires not only from the event itself but also from businesses, residents and regional agencies,” Ms Wootten said. Economic Impact report findings reveal that the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland 2012 generated $7.41 million into the Auckland economy. “The number of international and domestic visitors exceeded our expectations, with 5.6 nights as the average length of stay (in Auckland), visitors had plenty of time to experience what Auckland has to... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/itu_world_series_back_to_auckland_3-7_april_2013 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/itu_world_series_back_to_auckland_3-7_april_2013#When:04:42:39Z The legacy of the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final is secure with the announcement that Auckland will host an annual ITU World Triathlon Series Event for the next four years, starting 6-7 April 2013. The 8 race ITU World Triathlon Series visits iconic cities around the globe, with Auckland joining San Diego, Hamburg, Kitzbuhel, Yokohama, London, Madrid and Stockholm in a fast growing series watched by millions worldwide. The schedule, courses and race details are currently being finalised, and entries will open soon. 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/replay_your_finish http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/replay_your_finish#When:04:42:39Z Congratulations on being part of a record breaking Age Group World Championships! With more than 3000 athletes racing at Queens Wharf on Monday 22nd October, this helped put the 2012 ITU Age-Group World Championships in the International Triathlon Union history books! We hope you had a great time.  You can now re-live your finish and download a momento of your result in Auckland!  Click here to view your finisher's video and download your Auckland 2012 finisher's certificate. Click here to view your photos (enter your name or bib number into the search box at the top) Click here to view the full age-group results Click here to view the full medal tally Click here to view the Age Group highlights video We hope you had a great time and hope to see you in Auckland in April 2013! 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/results http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/results#When:04:42:39Z Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final 2012 results; Wednesday 17th October Aquathlon Saturday 20th October 3:5:3 Solo Tri U23 Women Elite Women U23 Men Sunday 21st October 3:5:3 Teams Tri Junior Women Elite Men Junior Men Monday 22nd October Age Group 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/competitor_information_guide_is_now_available http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/competitor_information_guide_is_now_available#When:04:42:39Z Hot off the electronic press, The Competitor Information Guide is now available to download! Inside this guide book is all the information athletes and team managers require to ensure they can compete to the highest level. We encourage athletes to read this guide thoroughly so that all you need to do now is focus on having the race of your dreams. Please click here to download!  (3MB)   The Barfoot and Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final team would like to wish all athletes the very best of luck with their final preparations and race day performance! 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/get_ready_to_party_kiwi_style http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/get_ready_to_party_kiwi_style#When:04:42:39Z You've raced, you've finished.. it's time to party kiwi style This year's Awards Function is a costume party... use your wildest imagination to come dressed as your National Hero. Heaps of prizes for the best dressed, as judges by the crowd, including a GPS watch for the winner! When you arrive at the function, get your photo taken on the red carpet and our judging panel will select the 10 finalists for the best dressed parade later in the night and the crowd will decide! Monday 22 October 6pm, The Cloud, Queens Wharf, Auckland To view the invite please click here 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/auckland_triathlon_the_biggest_world_champs_ever http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/auckland_triathlon_the_biggest_world_champs_ever#When:04:42:39Z It’s official, the Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final in Auckland from October 14 to 22nd will be the biggest ever, with 3001 registered to take part in official ITU age group world championship races and a further 760 in fun, participation events (for more information and to enter click here). The record numbers will begin arriving in the next week or so as athletes acclimatise to the weather and time zone before racing gets underway with the ITU World Aquathlon Championships on Wednesday 17th October, followed by the ITU Sprint and Standard Distance Age Group World Championships on Labour Day Monday 22nd October. While much of the focus in Auckland will fall on the elite athletes as they chase vital points in their final push for the World Championship and season ending rankings, the eyes of the global triathlon community will also be very much on the age group events, with world titles and rankings on the line in 5 year age brackets for men and women. Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final CEO Dave Beeche says the response from around the world is testament to the course, the country and the hard work of many people. “The response has been tremendous with entries from all around the world; it is amazing the commitment of triathletes as to how far they will travel to enjoy a great world championship, which is what we plan on delivering. “Auckland City and New Zealand can be proud of this achievement. We are of course about as far away from the rest of the world as you can get, but despite the increased challenges that distance brings, we will set a numbers benchmark for all ITU World Championship events. “The location has played a huge part in this, with a waterfront CBD race course offering a hub for all activity within walking distance of the central city hotels in a safe and welcoming environment. Athletes love the idea of arriving at their hotel and setting up camp, being within a short walk of the race venue, cafes, restaurants, shopping and nightlife has been a big part in our planning and will create a wonderful atmosphere throughout the week.” Athletes and their supporters are coming from all around the world and not all from the obvious countries either. In total an incredible 45 countries will be represented in Auckland in the age group events with Australia (628), Canada (320), USA (404), Great Britain (464) and Mexico (119) all bringing large teams to... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/limited_edition_triathlon_world_champs_wine http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/limited_edition_triathlon_world_champs_wine#When:04:42:39Z We have just released our Limited Edition Sileni Estate Wine, that will be the perfect memorabilia of your Auckland Grand Final experience and a great gift to take home to friends and family.  Our Limited Edition range includes the Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wine, that you can buy as a Mixed 3 bottle gift pack or as a 12 bottle case. Pre order your limited edition wine online by 30 September to ensure you don't miss out! (3 packs will be available for collection from the expo and full cases will be couriered out (NZ addresses only) the week of 15 October) For more information and to order your wine click here 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/expo_exhibitors_confirmed http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/expo_exhibitors_confirmed#When:04:42:39Z We have a fantastic range of Exhibitors lined up for the Sport & Lifestyle Expo at the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final. The Expo runs during festival week, from Tuesday 16 October to Sunday 21 October 2012. You will be able to browse for a range of sport and lifestyle products (all under one roof) including official event merchandise, sports clothing, bikes, running shoes, swim wear, timing products, eye wear, nutritional products, cars. You can find out about other sports events, gyms, and lots more! There will also be athlete appearances, advice and expertise, live demonstrations and new products to test- ALL FOR FREE! This is a not-to-be-missed event opportunity, located in a large marquee tent, behind Shed 10 on Queens Wharf. For more information and opening hours please click here 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/grandstand_tickets_on_sale_now http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/grandstand_tickets_on_sale_now#When:04:42:39Z Grandstand tickets are now on sale, so you can get up close to the world’s best triathletes including the Olympic Medallist Brownlee brothers, Andrea Hewitt and other super stars of the sport! Sit in comfort in the heart of the action, with premium views of the transition area, finish line and the nearby big screen display including live international commentary coverage. Grandstand tickets can be purchased for the Elite racing on Saturday 20 October and Sunday 21 October. Seats are just $20 for adults and $10 for kids 18 years or under ($50 for family pass for 2 Adults and 2 kids). The Grandstand will be free and open to supporters and public for the Age Group racing and Paratriathlon on Monday 22 October, on an unreserved basis. Don’t miss out. Secure your seats today!  Click here to purchase your Grandstand tickets! 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/kiwis_for_kiwi http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/kiwis_for_kiwi#When:04:42:39Z Kiwis for kiwi is proud to be the official charity of the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland. The Kiwi Trust, operating as Kiwis for kiwi, is a new independent trust carrying on the years of dedicated work by Save the Kiwi and thousands of volunteers throughout the country, helping to protect kiwi and the places they live. Sadly, 95% of kiwi in unprotected areas die before they reach breeding age, with the national population in serious decline. We are on a mission to save our national icon! We are offering five lucky race participants the chance to join us on a 'Kiwi Experience of a Lifetime' following the race festival on 23 October 2012. Visit the Kiwis for kiwi website for full details.                2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/brownlees_and_gomez_confirm_for_auckland http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/brownlees_and_gomez_confirm_for_auckland#When:04:42:39Z The Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final will enjoy the presence of the flying Brownlee brothers for the elite men’s race around the Auckland waterfront in October, with London gold medallist Alistair and his younger brother and London bronze medallist Jonathan advising that they will be on the start line on Sunday October 21st. They, along with London silver medallist Javier Gomez will complete a medal sweep of men’s starters for Auckland, with the Spaniard confirming in conversation to Triathlon New Zealand CEO Craig Waugh that he is heading for Auckland, news that has delighted Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final CEO Dave Beeche. “Ever since London everyone has been asking if the Brownlees and Javier will be lining up in Auckland, and while nothing is certain with injuries always a threat, to have all three stating that they will be in Auckland at this stage is fantastic. “They along with the remainder of the best in the world will put on a great show, along with our own best in the likes of Bevan Docherty, Kris Gemmell and Ryan Sissons. Fans need to make plans now to see these guys, Alistair Brownlee in particular is taking the sport to a new level and has to be seen live in action to be believed, we are in for a wonderful display on a fantastic testing course.” Alistair has indicated that he will be in Auckland as much to support younger brother Jonny. Injuries curtailed the 24 year olds start to the season, meaning it is unlikely he will have raced often enough to contend for the overall world title, a race that has Jonny currently in second with Stockholm, Yokohama and Auckland left to race. “It’s a good course in Auckland,” said Alistair in the aftermath of his London gold medal. “It’s hilly which makes it easier for a break to stay away on the bike. I want to go and support Jonny to try to win the world title, I can’t win it myself because I’ve not done enough races, but it should be a great race.” Jonny however has enjoyed a prolific season, with two wins and a second place putting him in second on the overall points, behind Russian Alexander Bryukhankov. “I’m looking forward to the Grand Final. It’s been a strange year for me with Alistair not being at a lot of the races, but it’s great that I could be in contention for the title and coming off the back of the Olympics it will be great for us... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/age_group_course_video http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/age_group_course_video#When:04:42:39Z 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/kids_can_also_be_part_of_the_triathlon_world_champs_with_their_very_own_rac http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/kids_can_also_be_part_of_the_triathlon_world_champs_with_their_very_own_rac#When:04:42:39Z A one off special World Champs Sanitarium Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon will be held on Sunday, 14 October 2012 at St Heliers as part of the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland festival.  The Weet-Bix Kids TRYathlon is a community-based event, encouraging Kiwi Kids between the ages of 7 and 15 years and of all sporting abilities to participate. For more information and to register click on the image below 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/tri_nz_hosts_successful_otu_seminar_in_auckland http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/tri_nz_hosts_successful_otu_seminar_in_auckland#When:04:42:39Z Last weekend an Oceania Triathlon Union (OTU) information based seminar was held for NTO officials.  Nine New Zealand officials and four Australian officials were invited to attend the seminar.  The schedule was jam packed with information focusing on the upcoming Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final. This included details on the event schedule for the two weeks leading into the event, elite, age group and participation courses, ITU rule updates and an overview of the self fund pathway as an ITU Official.  Paul Jeffrey, (Auckland Swim Director), took the team out on a boat so they could view the swim course first hand and to see the immense detail and planning that has gone into planning for the swim course for the event. Marguerite Christophers gave a presentation on paratriathlon classification and rules which gave officials a small insight into the complexity of including paratriathlon into our sport.  The NZ officials who attended the course were Brent Hussey, Cathi Davey, Claire Hannan, Gail Hussey, Georgina Workman, Jane Loughnan, Marguerite Christophers and Tony Sangster.  Thanks must go to Terry Sheldrake and Juliet Fahey for requesting and confirming the funding from OTU for the seminar, thanks also to Shanelle Barrett, Mel Johnson, Marguerite Christophers, Brendan Moore and Paul Jeffrey who contributed to the seminar. 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/100_days_to_go http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/100_days_to_go#When:04:42:39Z Today marks 100 days in the countdown to the Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final 2012, one of the biggest international sporting events to come to New Zealand. Key delivery stakeholders will gather at event headquarters on the Auckland waterfront to mark the occasion and to gather themselves for the push into the ‘home straight’ for an event that will welcome thousands of international visitors to New Zealand and showcase the event and city to a global audience in the millions. CEO of the Barfoot & Thompson ITU World Triathlon Grand Final 2012 Dave Beeche spoke of the coming together of a variety of agencies and stakeholders on a massive project. “Hosting this sort of an event in a city such as Auckland is no easy task; there are many different stakeholder groups who will contribute to the successful hosting of a truly global world championship event and we are determined to make this the best World Championship the sport has seen. “Triathlon New Zealand is the ‘host’ of the event if you like, but it is only through the extensive support and goodwill of ATEED, Auckland Transport, Ports of Auckland, Waterfront Auckland, Major Events New Zealand, Tourism New Zealand, Sport NZ and the support of our commercial partners such as Barfoot & Thompson that we can successfully bring something of this scale alive on the Auckland waterfront. “Last year’s hosting of an ITU World Cup was something of a dress rehearsal and its success proved that Auckland is indeed a vibrant city that welcomes events of this scale, creating an exciting place in which to live and do business in.” Recommendations and feedback from the 2011 event have been incorporated into the ITU World Triathlon Grand Final in October, according to Jennah Wootten, Acting General Manager – Destination, ATEED. ‘We are very aware of the need to ensure all stakeholders are clear on the impacts and opportunities that an event of this size provides Auckland.  The 2011 event re-ignited the waterfront after the World Cup and strongly reinforced Auckland’s ability to host world class events in the heart of Auckland, profiling the city internationally and returning significant economic benefit to the region,” says Ms Wootten The event is a festival of triathlon, beginning with a Weet Bix Kids TRYathlon at St Heliers on Sunday 14th October, culminating in the World Age Group... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/volunteers_we_need_you http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/volunteers_we_need_you#When:04:42:39Z This year’s World Champs is being held in the heart of Auckland City from Sunday 14 October until Tuesday 23 October. Around 6,000 domestic and international athletes will take part and 50,000 spectators will be there to witness the world-class racing. We need 800+ volunteers to help make this world class event AMAZING! We are looking for a team of enthusiastic, reliable and friendly volunteers to be part of our team to help deliver this spectacular event. Being a volunteer will not only be rewarding and motivating but also gives you the opportunity to utlise your skills, learn new skills, meet new people and be part of the action. There are a variety of volunteer roles available prior to the event, during event week and post event as well. Volunteers will be given training for some of the specific roles and all volunteers will be well briefed by one of the crew.   For more information on the roles available click here   If you have further queries regarding volunteering please email volunteer@triauckland.co.nz 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/353_solo_and_teams_tri_entries_open http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/353_solo_and_teams_tri_entries_open#When:04:42:39Z We have received a HUGE amount of interest in the 3:5:3 races... Ensure you get in quick so you don't miss out! Entries are now open online!     We've created two special 'Curtain Raiser' races so that anyone who wants to can experience the thrill of racing in a World Champs event (except it's for fun!). Whether you're an experienced triathlete or a triathlon novice, you'll want to be part of it. These races provide a unique opportunity to race on the World Champs course in the heart of Auckland City that the world's best race on later in the day. The format is a short and sharp '3:5:3' distance, a 300m swim, 5km bike and a 3km run, with racing as fast or friendly as you want to make it. You can either race Solo and claim all the glory for yourself, or race with your mates (where each team member completes a 300m swim, 5km cycle and 3km run then tags the next team-mate) in a 'see who can do the best time' tag-team format. And for those teams looking for the extra edge, Team Gold Packages are also available, including your own elite triathlete as a coach such as Cameron Brown or Jo Lawn! For more information on the Solo Tri click here! For more information on the Teams Tri click here! 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/why_just_watch_you_can_race_the_triathlon_world_champs http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/why_just_watch_you_can_race_the_triathlon_world_champs#When:04:42:39Z Why Just Watch? You can race the Triathlon World Champs! The Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final is coming to town and now you can be a part of it! We've created two special 'Curtain Raiser' races so that anyone who wants to can experience the thrill of racing in a World Champs event (except it's for fun!). Whether you're an experienced triathlete or a triathlon novice, you'll want to be part of it. These races provide a unique opportunity to race on the World Champs course in the heart of Auckland City that the world's best race on later in the day. The races will take place before the Women's Elite race on Saturday and again before the Men's Elite race on Sunday. But don't worry, you'll be finished in time for a quick shower, a bite to eat and then back to watch the main event! The format is a short and sharp '3:5:3' distance, a 300m swim, 5km bike and a 3km run, with racing as fast or friendly as you want to make it. You can either race Solo and claim all the glory for yourself, or race with your mates (where each team member completes a 300m swim, 5km cycle and 3km run then tags the next team-mate) in a 'see who can do the best time' tag-team format. And for those teams looking for the extra edge, Team Gold Packages are also available, including your own elite triathlete as a coach such as Cameron Brown or Jo Lawn! All you need to do is choose your wave start category, so you can start and race against others with similar abilities. Choose from the following wave start categories; 1.       The Contenders - ‘Watch out Hamish Carter I’m coming after you’ 2.       Young Guns – ‘We’re lean, mean, and under 19 ’ 3.       The Pretenders – ‘I’m here for a good time and I will be a long time’ 4.       The Stoners – ‘I swim like a stone and I’m bringing my flippers’ And yes we will allow flippers in this wave start  The 3:5:3 Solo Tri will take place on Saturday 20 October, and the 3:5:3 Teams Tri on Sunday 21 October. The 2012 Triathlon World Champs is going to be the biggest 3 days of Triathlon racing New Zealand has ever seen, and the buzz you'll get from racing through downtown Auckland in front of huge local crowds makes this 'bucket-list' event something to experience... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/attention_all_elites_and_age_groupers_get_ready_for_a_race_like_no_other http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/attention_all_elites_and_age_groupers_get_ready_for_a_race_like_no_other#When:04:42:39Z Kia Ora Kiwi's love their triathlons and Auckland is gearing up to come out and cheer on this year's Grand Final in a way that has never been seen before! Last year's World Cup race saw over 30,000 spectators turn up and turn it on, creating an amazing buzz for competitors, and this year will be even bigger. On or off the track, you'll experience the genuine hospitality and friendly welcome that has made Kiwi's famous! Your formal welcome will take place on Thursday night at the Opening Ceremony, where you'll be able to meet other competitors and get a real taste for Kiwi food and culture.  And to help you really feel at home we've put together a special text (SMS) service, just for visiting athletes. One easy text and you'll be able to find out where the best Italian restaurant is, or a friendly and expert local bike shop or even get the inside scoop on the best one-day sightseeing excursions...    To read more click on the image below... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/age_group_registration_officially_open http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/age_group_registration_officially_open#When:04:42:39Z Triathlon National Federations have now been sent official communication from the Local Organising Committee (LOC) confirming the step-by-step athlete registration process for the Age Group events. This officially marks the opening of the registration process for the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland.  The first step in this process is for National Federations to register a key point of contact. This person will be responsible for the Age Group athlete registration process for your National Federation. This needs to be done by Friday 11 May 2012. Once this is completed, National Federations can commence the registration process for their Age Group athletes. The registration process closes at midnight on Friday 20 July 2012. The following useful information and documentation to assist National Federations with the registration process is available; National Federation Guide - A step by step information guide to Auckland Grand Final event and the Age Group online registration process. Age Group Athlete Form - Form to be sent to Age Group athletes to complete and send back to National Federations (NF's will require this information to register athletes within the LOC online registration system) Event Flyer - A promotional flyer for National Federations to send on to Age Group athletes FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions can now be viewed on our website by clicking here If your National Federation has not yet received this information please contact Michelle Hooper at michelle.hooper@triauckland.co.nz New Zealand is looking forward to hosting the Barfoot & Thompson World Triathlon Grand Final Auckland and welcoming competing athletes to our shores.  2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/2012_itu_world_triathlon_series http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/2012_itu_world_triathlon_series#When:04:42:39Z   There will be eight rounds in the 2012 season, culminating with the Grand Final in Auckland in October. The world's top triathletes will compete head-to-head for ranking points that determine the overall ITU world champion, with media and fans able to watch from everywhere with a live international broadcast feed available from every event. A total of $2.06 million USD will be available for elite athletes racing the 2012 ITU World Triathlon Series, the first time since the series started that the prize pool has topped two million.   2012 ITU World Triathlon Series: April 14 - Sydney, Australia May 11-12 - San Diego, USA May 26-27 - Madrid, Spain (final race in Olympic qualification) June 23-24 - Kitzbuehel, Austria July 21-22 - Hamburg, Germany (sprint distance) August 25-26 - Stockholm, Sweden (sprint distance, and includes Mixed Relay World Championships) September 30 - Yokohama, Japan October 20-22 - Grand Final - Auckland, New Zealand 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/are_you_ready_for_auckland_2012 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/are_you_ready_for_auckland_2012#When:04:42:39Z View this to get excited about experiencing the astonishing variety and breathtaking beauty that Auckland has to offer! View all accommodation options here If you have any questions please email us at info@triauckland.co.nz   We look forward to seeing you in October! 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/itu_announces_schedule_for_2012 http://auckland.triathlon.org/news/article/itu_announces_schedule_for_2012#When:04:42:39Z At its 24th annual Congress, the International Triathlon Union (ITU) today unveiled the dates and host cities for the 2012 ITU Triathlon World Championship Series. Wrapped around the London 2012 Olympic Games, the world’s top triathletes will battle for the ITU World Championship titles in an 8-city global series staged on four continents, including a stop in triathlon’s birthplace - San Diego, California, USA. 2012 ITU Triathlon World Championship Series: April 14-15: Sydney, Australia May 12-13: San Diego, USA May 26-27: Madrid, Spain (final event in Olympic qualifying) June 23-24: Kitzbühel, Austria July 21-22: Hamburg, Germany August 25-26: Lausanne, Switzerland (includes ITU Team Triathlon World Championships) September (exact weekend TBC): Yokohama, Japan Grand Final – October 18-22: Auckland, New Zealand All elite women’s and men’s races will be broadcast live to an international audience and streamed online live.  In 2011, the series was broadcast in more than 160 countries. “The ITU World Championship Series is the pinnacle of triathlon, which will be exemplified with the 2012 installment of the series and a line-up of eight world class cities,” said Marisol Casado, ITU President and IOC Member. “The sport and this series continues to grow every year and we expect 2012 to be the most spectacular triathlon season ever.” The first series event of 2012 takes place in Sydney for the third straight year amidst the backdrop of legendary Sydney Opera house, where the triathlon was held in its Olympic Games debut in 2000. Next up will be a historic event in San Diego, California, the city where triathlon was first invented back in 1974.  San Diego becomes the second U.S. city to host a round of the series after Washington, D.C. in 2009. Then the series shifts to Europe for four rounds, starting with Madrid, candidate city for the 2020 Olympic Games.  Long been a favourite for many ITU stars, Madrid has hosted World Championship Series events and World Cups since 2003.  Raising the stakes in Madrid is that it will be the final opportunity for athletes to collect Olympic qualifying points.  Qualifying for the 2012 Olympic Games will come full circle as it began in Madrid in June 2010. Kitzbühel, Austria will host a round of the series for the fourth straight year. The 2012 edition will feature a redesigned course with a more demanding and... 2013-04-19T04:42:39+00:00