Olympic triathletes Lawrence Fanous of Great Britain, Malaysian Rikigoru Shinozuka and Abdulla Attiyah of Bahrain are among some of the big names who would be competing in the Doha Triathlon 2017 alongside 400 athletes, promising a lively and entertaining race for the spectators.
The race will take place at the iconic Museum of Islamic Art and Doha Corniche tomorrow.
The Doha Triathlon, in association with Qatar Tourism Authority, is the result of a joint collaboration between the Qatar Cycling Federation, TriClub Doha and Tasama Sports Development.
The event promises entertainment by Red Bull and an expo area featuring Carbon Wheels Bike Shop, Oola Sportswear, Royal Air Maroc, Royal Riviera Hotel and Sehtak Awalan. Support sponsors Trinity Talent, Fraser Suites, Mannai Corp, Rayyan Water, FitQ and Mena Film Group will all also be contributing to make the inaugural event a success for all.
Triathlon is a sport that combines swimming, cycling and running and is seeing increased popularity in Qatar.
Doha Triathlon event organisers and sponsors promise a unique experience for participants and spectators alike, encouraging adults and children to show up and cheer on the athletes at the race, which will start at 6:30am and run till 11am.
For Olympic distance participants, the 1.5km Swim section will take part in the MIA water bay, while the 40km Bike section will go through the Corniche, which will be closed on one side to allow for a safe race.
The 10km Run section will take part in the MIA Park. Sprint distance athletes will cover half these respective distances with both distances being open to individual races covering all three disciplines or team relays. Race participants and spectators will have access to the MIA parking facilities by accessing the port adjacent to MIA.
Dr Mohamed al-Kuwari, President of the QCF which governs triathlon in Qatar, said: “We feel very positive about Doha Triathlon and the potential to develop triathlon in the region. For both Qataris and expatriate athletes, the sports of cycling and triathlon are becoming increasingly popular in Qatar and we are keen to keep building on this momentum.
“The weather in Qatar is ideal for outdoor sport at this time of the year and the addition of an iconic race to our calendar expands opportunities for athletes and the general public looking for sports activities to participate in.”
Hatem el Safty, President of TriClub Doha, expects the event to be a huge success, one which will put Qatar on the triathlon map for both GCC and international professional triathletes.
“Our club members are ecstatic with the addition of Doha Triathlon to their race calendar. We are thankful to all parties involved for making this event possible as it represents the pinnacle of what we enjoy—a social sports event at an iconic venue.”
Marouf Mahmoud, Founder of local sports marketing agency Tasama, which is managing sponsorships, marketing and PR for the event, promised a memorable experience for athletes and spectators alike.
“Triathlon is an amazing sport to practice and watch. The transitions between swimming, cycling and running are always challenging and provide for a technical and often very entertaining show for spectators and fans.
“The support of our partners and sponsors has been incredible and I anticipate a very fun day for everyone coming to watch. It’s a beautiful venue and a great way to start our weekend here in Doha. I encourage one and all to come and cheer for the athletes in this challenging race.”
