Organisers of the annual flagship Abu Dhabi International Triathlon are bringing back the popular Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon presented by Activelife – only this year’s event, which will run Friday, March 14th will be bigger.

Last year’s inaugural event saw over 100 children converge on Abu Dhabi Corniche to compete in the first Duathlon in the UAE, with hundreds of family and friends supporting them.

The inaugural competition’s huge success has led event organisers, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA AD), and National Health Insurance Company, Daman, to join forces in presenting the 2014 Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon.

Dr. Sven Rohte, Chief Commercial Officer at Daman, is looking forward to being a part of the junior triathlon and said: “The Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon, which we are supporting as part of our Activelife brand, fits perfectly with our strategy to mobilise the community, young and old, to adopt a healthier, active lifestyle.

“Triathlon is most commonly viewed as a sport for the professionals but with initiatives like this one, we are presenting it in a fun, accessible manner that kids would enjoy, and hopefully be inspired by as a way to stay healthy as they grow older.” 

The Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon will take place one day ahead of the flagship Abu Dhabi International Triathlon and organisers are expecting over 500 children to register.

The event will kick off from the East Plaza on Abu Dhabi’s iconic Corniche and some of the world’s greatest elite triathletes, including reigning Olympic Champion, Alistair Brownlee, will be there to show their support.

The Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon is offering two race formats for each of its target age groups: 9-12 years old are eligible for the aquathon, which is similar to last year’s format and consists of a 200m swim and a 2km run.

The second age group from 13-16 years old have the chance to compete in a 300m swim, 9km bike ride and a 2.5km run. 

Both events can be completed solo or as a team relay. 

Abu Dhabi Junior Triathlon registration is open from February 4 and will close on March 1 at www.abudhabitriathlon.com and is priced at AED50 (US$13) per individual entry or AED 100 (USD 26) per team. In addition to the chance to take home medals and prizes, each entrant will get a special Abu Dhabi welcome pack on the day.