The iconic Beijing International Triathlon is now draft-legal for professionals

Cam Mitchell July 30, 2019

On July 30th, race organizers of the Beijing International Triathlon announced changes to the race format in 2020 and the professional field that will toe the line on September 8th.

Paula Findlay won the Beijing International Triathlon in 2017.

In 2020, the professional athletes will race the Olympic distance triathlon in a draft-legal format. This change is expected to add to the intensity and excitement of the race. The age groupers division will remain a non-drafting format and serve as the only qualifier race in Asia for Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon.

Riders in the early breakaway at WTS Montreal in 2018. Photo: Cam Mitchell

Last year’s winners, Jonny Brownlee and Ashleigh Gentle are not expected to defend their titles in 2020, however, and impressive field of ITU and long talent is expected to make the start.

Jonny Brownlee wins the Beijing International Triathlon. Photo via @jonnybrownleetri

Ashleigh Gentle wins the Beijing International Triathlon. Photo via @gentle_ash

On the men’s side, the race will include Craig Alexander, a three-time Ironman world champion, Henri Schoeman, the bronze medallist from Rio Olympics, and Vincent Luis, the 2017 and 2018 World Triathlon Series Grand Final winner. On the women’s side, Lucy Hall, Summer Rappaport, Taylor Spivey, Jodie Stimpson and Natalie Van Coevorden are all expected to be on the start line on September 8th.