Para triathletes to take on Liverpool course ahead of Rio 2016

British Triathlon has revealed that Tri Liverpool will host the British Para Triathlon Championships alongside elite, age-group and beginner racing on Sunday 14 August.

The Championships will give athletes a final racing opportunity ahead of September’s Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. In addition, competitors looking to qualify for the 2017 European Triathlon Union (ETU) Para-Triathlon European Championships in Kitzbuehl, Austria, will have the chance to add points to their tally.

Jonathan Riall, British Para-Triathlon head coach, said: “The British Para Triathlon Championships arrive at a fitting point in the 2016 calendar. With a month to go until the sport makes its debut at the Rio Paralympics, athletes will be looking to make their final preparations ahead of the Games and get race-ready on home soil.”

Both elite and amateur para--triathletes will come together for the first race of the day on 14 August. Taking on the sprint distance, competitors will swim 750m, cycle 20km using hand cycles, bicycles or tandem bicycles with a guide and a 5km wheelchair or running race.

Riall added: “Not only do the Championships offer an occasion to showcase some of the country’s finest sporting talent, they also create a chance to unearth potential stars of the future and increase para-triathlon participation; giving novices the chance to race alongside established names. It should be a great day combining all aspects of multisport for spectators to enjoy.”

Chief Executive Officer of British Triathlon, Jack Buckner, added: “This announcement is significant for our sport, as we look to bring together both triathletes and para-triathletes to compete on the same iconic course. With flat terrain, swift transition and a looping urban route, it's a chance for all our competitors to aim for a smooth performance, whether it be a potential Rio rehearsal for our elite para-triathletes, or just for fun.”

Participants who are physically or visually impaired who aspire to compete in national or international para-triathlon competitions can obtain an official classification before Tri Liverpool by emailing the para-triathlon team at paratriathlon@britishtraiathlon.org.

For more information about Tri Liverpool, visit their website.