‘Strong women’s field’ ready to begin World Triathlon Series at Abu Dhabi’s new Yas Island course

Jodie Stimpson returns to Abu Dhabi to defend the title she won last year. Ravindranath K / The National

Seven of the top 10 women triathletes will lead a 60-strong field from 19 countries at the World Triathlon Series season opener on March 3 and 4 on the all-new Yas Island course.

Seventy-one wins in total

Among the competitors will be reigning champion Jodie Stimpson of Britain, 2016 world champion Flora Duffy of Bermuda, world No 3 Ai Ueda of Japan, No 6 Andrea Hewitt of New Zealand, No 8 Charlotte McShane of Australia, and American Olympians Katie Zaferes and Sarah True. The seven women boast 71 wins between them, making it one of the strongest line ups to appear at the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi.

Missing from field

Another notable name will be 2016 Olympic silver medallist Vanessa Fernandes, widely regarded as the most successful woman in triathlon history with 20 World Cup titles to her name. The woman who won the Rio Olympic gold, Gwen Jorgensen, will be taking the year off due to pregnancy.

‘Bucket list race’

“The Abu Dhabi win was one of the highlights of my 2016 season, so I can’t wait to return to the UAE and check out the new course,” Stimpson said. “This is a bucket list race for most triathletes, so I am lucky to be joining such a strong women’s field on the start line in March.”

Feeling is mutual

Sharing Stimpson’s enthusiasm for Abu Dhabi is three-time Olympian Duffy. “I couldn’t ask for more from the Abu Dhabi race — beautiful course, great weather and amazing friends to race with — and hopefully a win of course,” she said. “I am counting down the days before I’m back on the blue carpet.”

Details of event

The race categories, which can be completed as an individual or as part of a relay team, include sprint (750-metre swim, 20km bike and 5km run), Olympic (1,500m swim, 40km bike and 10km run), and Maxi (1,500m swim, 80km bike and 20km run). Around 3,500 amateurs are expected to take part over the two-day event. A junior triathlon is also being organised.

* Agency