ITU introduces innovative new triathlon format: time trial qualifier in Kitzbühel, Austria announced

ITU is pleased to introduce an innovative new format of triathlon racing to its 2016 race calendar. This year, the 2016 Kitzbühel World Cup will debut a time trial qualification format that will see athletes compete twice in one day.

“Kitzbühel is known to our triathletes for its innovating formats,” said ITU President and IOC Member Marisol Casado. “In 2013, athletes endured one of the toughest races we’ve ever presented as they climbed and ran up Kitzbühel Horn Mountain as a part of the World Triathlon Series. As we continue exploring ways in which we can evolve the sport of triathlon with exciting formats, it’s my pleasure to see this new format tested out in such a forward-thinking place like Kitzbühel.”

The time trial, to be held in the morning, will be contested over 2/3 the distance of a sprint triathlon, with athletes going off at 30-second intervals. The athletes with the top 30 times in the time trial will then advance to the finals later in the day.

The final podium will be decided over a super sprint triathlon course, which will be 1/3 the distance of a regular sprint race. For the finals competition, athletes will begin with a mass start.

The time trial qualification format allows more athletes to compete on the playing field, as they are sent off one by one. The dynamic, quick tempo race style also provides a strong platform for Junior and U23 athletes to prepare for the leap to elite racing.

“I’d like to extend a warm thank you to the ITU team to permit us to work on a new format like this,” said Triathlon Austria President Walter Zettinig, “We are looking forward to organizing a great World Cup race in Kitzbühel again.”

While the Kitzbühel World Cup will be contested after the close of the Olympic qualification period, this fast and furious format will be an ideal race for athletes to hone their speed ahead of the Rio Olympics.  

“We are sure this new format will highlight the ability for individuals to perform,” said LOC Director Herwig Grabner. “The shorter distance in the finals will be highly attractive to TV broadcasters, which will enable us to show spectators how fast and attractive our sport is.”

1. Time Trial rules and regulations.pdf

IRONMAN ANNOUNCES MANAGING DIRECTORS OF ASIA-PACIFIC REGION

David Beeche Named Managing Director of IRONMAN Oceania and

Geoff Meyer Named Managing Director of IRONMAN Asia

 

Following the announcement of the pending acquisition of events from Lagardère Sports’ endurance division, IRONMAN today announced new leadership roles for the Asia-Pacific region. David Beeche from Lagardère Sports will join IRONMAN as Managing Director of IRONMAN Oceania (Australia and New Zealand), effective on March, 31. Geoff Meyer will continue with IRONMAN as the Managing Director of IRONMAN Asia (excluding China).

 

“With our business expanding in this area of the world – including the recent addition of multi-sport endurance events – IRONMAN will continue to grow under David and Geoff’s leadership,” said Andrew Messick, Chief Executive Officer of IRONMAN. “We are excited about the future of the brand in Oceania and Asia.”

 

As Managing Director of IRONMAN Oceania, Beeche will manage and oversee the complete portfolio of events in Australia and New Zealand. This includes IRONMAN races, IRONMAN 70.3 races, multi-sport events, mountain biking events and marathons.

 

"I am excited and grateful to be given the opportunity to lead the Oceania business through its next growth phase,” said Beeche. “As an IRONMAN athlete I understand the impact our events can have on peoples’ lives – and bringing that together with these iconic marathon and cycling events – gives us a unique and compelling position in the market."

 

Meyer, who has been in a leadership role with IRONMAN since 2012 and involved with the sport of triathlon for more than 12 years, will now be responsible for all of the events and licensees in Asia (except China). Meyer will also focus on growing event portfolio and leading business development.