Yorkshire confirmed as venue for elite triathlon race

The city has been confirmed as the host for one of the stages of the event, which is expected to bring thousands of spectators to the region next summer.

The race will be broadcast live around the world and feature top athletes including hometown Olympic heroes Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee.

Olympic champion Alistair said: “It’s fantastic news that Leeds’s bid has been successful.

“I am sure the crowds will come out in force to see a major triathlon event in Leeds for the first time, and I’m sure it will be a brilliant event.”

Competitors will start the race in Leeds’ Roundhay Park with a 1,500-metre swim before finishing in the heart of the city after a 40km-bike ride and a 10km-run.

Amateur triathletes will also have the opportunity to take part on the same course as the elite competitors in separate races.

Coun Keith Wakefield, leader of Leeds City Council, said: “We are thrilled that Leeds will be hosting a round of the ITU World Triathlon Series next year. Following on from the incredible Tour de France Grand Départ and the great success of the recent Tour de Yorkshire, the love of sport and support for major world-class events by the people of Leeds and Yorkshire is clear and this will be another amazing event to showcase our city and county to the world.

“Seeing the world’s best triathletes in action in Roundhay Park and then racing into and around the city centre will be fantastic and the chance to watch the Brownlee brothers compete in their home city for free is sure to see huge crowds creating a tremendous atmosphere and another unmissable experience in Leeds.

The event has been held in cities around the world this year including Abu Dhabi, Gold Coast, Cape Town and Yokohama.

The date of next year’s race has not been announced.

To register to take part in the race log on to www.britishtriathlon.org/leeds