Canary Wharf to host new triathlon

Canary Wharf will host one of the most exciting new sports events of the summer on the evening of Thursday 30 June 2011 as a brand-new race is added to the British Triathlon Super Series calendar.





Some of the world’s best elite triathletes will take on a Super-Sprint eliminator in what promises to be a high-octane spectacle around the famous Canary Wharf business and shopping district. Through a series of heats, 50 starters will be ruthlessly whittled down to 20 for the grand final. Each heat will comprise of just 30 minutes of fast-paced, flat-out swimming (400m), cycling (10km) and running (2km).



Zara Hyde Peters OBE, the Chief Executive Officer of British Triathlon, welcomed the announcement of the GE Canary Wharf Triathlon:



“The GE Canary Wharf Triathlon promises to be a groundbreaking event. For the first time since Strathclyde Country Park in 2008, the British Triathlon Super Series will include a Super-Sprint event as elite triathletes compete at close quarters against the backdrop of Canary Wharf. It has always been our ambition to bring more triathlon to the heart of British cities and this is a fantastic opportunity.



“The event will provide an incredible spectator experience with the prime evening timing and compact course allowing triathlon and sport fans alike to get up close and personal with world class athletes in our fast growing, dynamic and modern Olympic sport.”



London born triathlete and last year’s Super Series winner Tim Don gave his backing to the race:



“It’s fantastic to have such an iconic new venue included in the Super Series. The super sprint format will ensure high octane racing and huge excitement for athletes and spectators alike.”



In addition to the elite performers, Canary Wharf-based companies are being invited to enter in a ‘corporate wave’ relay event that will see successful entrants race the same course as the elites. This exclusive race will take place between the heats and finals of the elite races.



The event will see North and South Colonnade, Canada and Cabot Square at Canary Wharf closed for approximately from 5pm to 10pm on the evening of 30 June; however all public car parks will be kept open throughout.



The GE Canary Wharf Triathlon is the final event to be announced in the 2011 Super Series. The full calendar is as follows:



GE Strathclyde Park Triathlon 22 May 2011

Blenheim Triathlon 4 June 2011

Toshiba Windsor Triathlon 12 June 2011

GE Canary Wharf Triathlon 30 June 2011

Virgin Active London Triathlon 30 July 2011



For more information visit www.britishtriathlonsuperseries.com.