Excitement builds ahead of Jamaica Triathlon

Sheena Gayle, Sunday Gleaner Writer

WESTERN BUREAU:

With more than $4 million to stage the newly branded Jamaica Triathlon at Iberostar Resort in Montego Bay, the organisers are making the event more destination-friendly to accommodate all levels of sports enthusiasts.

"In keeping with our internationally recognised name and rich heritage in sports, the Jamaica Triathlon was renamed from Rose Hall Triathlon to make it easier to market the brand internationally," the events director Rayne Russell outlined at the press launch of the event at its host location.

The premier sporting event is listed as one of the 100 best Triathlon in the world. The fourth staging of Jamaica Triathlon will be hosted at a central location on the grounds of Iberostar Resort from November 11 to 13.

Destination-friendly event

"This year, we have focused on making the event more destination-friendly and not geared towards only professionals or amateurs. This year, everyone who wants to participate in the triathlon can do so. We will still have about 10 confirmed professional athletes at the event, but we have it opened up to a wider cross-section of participants," Russell explained.

He further added that the course is different from that of last year, as all the events will begin and end at Iberostar Hotel beach. This course is also easier, Russell said, and participants will be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery on the elegant Rose Hall corridor.

A new addition to the weekend of triathlon activities is the Corporate Jamaica 5K Run/Walk Challenge that is opened to all corporate companies across the island. The event is limited to 150 walkers and 150 runners, because the races will be timed using Pro-Chip Timing, a technology that allows for easier timing of all the participants.

Registration is open for all events, including the Corporate Jamaica 5K Run/Walk Challenge and can be done at www.jamaicatri.com.

In a bid to promote youth involvement in sports, Ocean Spray Wata, for the second year, has decided to sponsor their Ocean Spray Wata School Challenge Workshop. The workshop will see some 500 children from ages 13-18 engaged in activities such as a one-on-one clinic on equipment, technique, nutrition, discipline and triathlons. At the end of the workshop, they will participate in a mandatory 5K run.