The World Triathlon Series now stops at Cape Town

The International Triathlon Union (ITU) today announced an addition to the 2014 World Triathlon Series calendar. For the first time ever, a World Triathlon Series event will be held on the continent of Africa with a race slated to be held at the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa on April 26-27, 2014.

The World Triathlon Cape Town race will serve as the second stop on the eight-city tour, which kicks off in Auckland on April 5-6. Cape Town is one of only two cities to debut on the WTS calendar in 2014, with Chicago also hosting an event for the first time.

2014 World Triathlon Series Schedule

Auckland – April 5-6

Cape Town – April 26-27

Yokohama – May 17-18

London – May 31-June 1

Chicago – June 27-29

Hamburg – July 12-13

Stockholm – August 23-24

Edmonton – August 26-September 1

“We have been working to secure a WTS event in Africa for a long time,” ITU President and IOC Member Marisol Casado said. “We are very excited to bring our fast paced, action-packed style of racing there. The location is an ideal spot for premium racing, and will also serve as an important development tool for all of Africa.”

Race organizers have proposed a two-lap 1500m swim within the V&A Waterfront, followed by a scenic eight-lap 40km bike ride along Beach Road and a four-lap 10km run with constant ocean views for the elites. The weekend of events will also include races for mass participation events.

The heart of the event will be the Race Village hosted at the Look Out Venue at the V&A Waterfront which will feature a lifestyle expo and will contain grand stands from which the public has a clear view of the finish line.

Age groupers can choose between the standard distance Olympic distance course or sprint course. Team relays are also available at both distances. Athletes and their families will also experience a weekend full of festivities including sundown concerts, a race exhibition, kids & family races.

Find out more about the World Triathlon Series.