The Abu Dhabi Schools Challenge, launched by the organisers of the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi, will give individuals and teams the chance to compete in the growing sport of triathlon.

Taking place on March 7 at Abu Dhabi Sailing & Yacht Club, the event is sponsored by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC).

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Schools will receive a 30 per cent discount for staff and pupils entering the race, while schools can also form teams of three to compete in the Schools Team Sprint Challenge. ADSC will fund the registration fees for the first 100 teams that enter the Team Challenge.

Talal Al Hashemi, ADSC’s technical affairs director, said: “Supporting our future generations is at the core of what we do and it is important we offer health and fitness programmes that specifically target those groups and communities.

“The ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi is not just an event for the elite triathletes and professionals, it is an event for communities to come together and have a great time in a healthy and competitive environment.”

The opener of the ITU World Triathlon Series is fast approaching with more than 1,200 athletes already set to take part. Paul Venn, head of race operations, feels bringing the event to schools will help further develop the sport.

“Triathlon is already one of the fastest growing sports in the world and if we want the UAE to follow this growth then we have to attract new athletes young and old,” Venn said. 

Participants can race one of three course options. Sprint consists of a 0.5km swim, a 20km cycle and a 5km run. Olympic is a 1.5km swim, 40km cycle and a 10k run.

The most challenging course is Maxi, which is a gruelling 2km swim, 80km cycle and 20km run. All three courses can be done individually or as a team relay.

Entry fees range from Dh315 to Dh560, depending on the course and whether it’s individual or team. Registration closes on Saturday, February 28 and to sign up, visit www.abudhabi.triathlon.org/enter. 

The weekend will also have the Aquathlon on March 6. Spectators can come out and enjoy the Fans’ village, the ‘Friends and Family’ area with refreshments and watch the events from the stands.

What: Abu Dhabi School Challenge, ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi
Where: Abu Dhabi Sailing & Yacht Club
When: Saturday, March 7 with registration closing on Saturday, February 28
Contact: Visit www.abudhabi.triathlon.org/enter to register and for more information.