ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 1

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1 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 1

2 2 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI DOWNLOAD YOUR HEALTH INSURANCE CARD National Health Insurance Company Daman

3 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 3 GET THAT FEELING! Welcome to the 2018 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi! We hope your training has been successful, and you re excited to race the pinnacle of world triathlon on 2 nd 3 rd March, on Abu Dhabi s iconic Yas Island. This guide is your go-to place for everything you need to know about the Age Group and Junior races. It includes essential information including how to register and pick up your race pack, schedules, routes, those all-important race results and how you can watch the world s best go head-to-head in the Elite Race. We want to ensure you have an incredible time at this year s ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi so whether you are competing in your first ever triathlon or are a seasoned pro, please take the time to read this guide prior to your race. We would also recommend regularly checking our website for the most up-to-date information. Throughout race week, and after your race, we d love to hear about your experience. Don t forget to take pictures and videos and share them on our social media pages using #WTSAbuDhabi. Good luck, enjoy the race and savour THAT feeling of crossing the finish line on the world-famous blue carpet! For more information, go to abudhabi.triathlon.org Age Group Guide: Page 9-34 Junior Guide: Page

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5 It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2018 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi the 4 th time that Abu Dhabi will host the season-opening ITU World Triathlon race, and the second time on the stunning Yas Island. A huge congratulations to each and every athlete taking part. Whether you re a seasoned triathlete, embarking on the sport for the first time, or one of our junior athletes I have huge admiration for what you are about to achieve, and am supporting you every step of the way. The ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi will be my first triathlon race, and I look forward to seeing you on the start line! WELCOME ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 5 Triathlon forms a central pivot within our Sports Council mandate and resonates with everything we are trying hard to achieve. Your sport welcomes people from all walks of life - irrespective of age, gender, nationality or ability to search for that wonderful sense of achievement and to adopt a healthier lifestyle. That is why we love it, and why we are committed to developing the sport in this country. In line with our commitment to inclusiveness, we are proud that for the first time, we are hosting race waves dedicated to paraathletes. We are also proud to welcome many Special Olympic athletes in our age group races. This is especially exciting as we look forward to hosting the Special Olympics World Games in A warm welcome to all the para-athletes and people of determination taking part. This year, together with our stakeholders we are hosting an action-packed schedule across the whole weekend. The Event Village will host an array of family-friendly activities, live entertainment, food trucks and of course, grand stands to watch the world s best athletes go head-to-head from 1.36pm on Friday. We are also hosting a free-to-enter family 1km fun run on Friday, open to all ages (strollers included) please do get involved! Finally my thanks to the International Triathlon Union, our presenting partner Daman and all our sponsors for their continued support, to our management team at Worldsport Arabia and to Miral for providing us with such a fantastic venue. Good luck, race well, and for those who have travelled to Abu Dhabi I hope you find some time to visit more of our incredible city. H.E. AREF HAMAD AL AWANI GENERAL SECRETARY Please join me in sharing your experiences and using the hashtags #WTSAbuDhabi #InAbuDhabi.

6 6 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI WELCOME Greetings and welcome to the 2018 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi. It is a great pleasure to be able to return to Abu Dhabi for a fourth successive year with the World Triathlon Series, and to once again begin the new season in this wonderful city. Since hosting our first ever race in the region in 2015, the ITU has cherished the opportunity to hold triathlons of such scale and importance in the Middle East, at the same time helping to develop the sport in the UAE in both profile and participation. The prestige of hosting the first race of the season, as Abu Dhabi has done for four years now, should not be underestimated. The race sets the tone for the rest of the calendar year, and is a crucial test for the months of close-season training that these athletes have been through. Last year, we saw the city unveil Yas Island as its new WTS course, and again it lived up to expectations, providing a challenging and technical circuit that tested the best in the world to deliver on the biggest stage. Abu Dhabi will also provide another exciting weekend of activities for triathletes of all ages and abilities to get involved in our sport. Sprint, standard and medium distance events will take place, providing an impressive range of enthusiasts with the perfect challenge to suit their level. The vibrant city of Abu Dhabi and its iconic Yas Island provide the perfect backdrop for these events during an excellent weekend of family-friendly sports action for its citizens. After all, triathlon is a sport for everybody, regardless of age or gender. I would like to thank our partners at Abu Dhabi Sports Council for their continued support and dedication to growing the sport of triathlon. Thank you also to the UAE Triathlon Federation, the Local Organising Committee, and the city of Abu Dhabi for their help in putting this weekend together. I hope you will enjoy another memorable Abu Dhabi WTS spectacle and have a wonderful weekend to start the new season. Sincerely, MARISOL CASADO President, International Triathlon Union IOC Member

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8 SCHEDULE * Schedule subject to change. Check abudhabi.triathlon.org for the latest schedule

9 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 9 BEFORE THE COMPETITION REGISTRATION AND RACE PACK PICK UP To take part in the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi, you will need to register and pick up your race pack before your designated race day. This year, we are hosting registration and race pack collection options in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi registration takes place in the Race Village at Yas Marina Circuit, and Dubai takes place at Adventure HQ in Times Square Centre both venues have ample parking. If you have registered online, you will have already agreed to our indemnity form. For those signing up during registration, you will need to sign an indemnity form. All participants will collect their race pack during registration. Registration is open during the following dates and times only. IMPORTANT: When registering, please bring a valid photo identification. Without photo ID, you will not be able to collect your Race Pack and wristband, and therefore will not be able to race. If you are registering and collecting a race pack on behalf of a friend, you will need to bring a copy of their race entry and their ID. When every breath weighs you down and your strength begins to fade, you need a caring touch that s within reach and a helping hand that gets you on your feet. You need a healthcare partner that is with you on your journey to recovery. With nearly 100 years of medical expertise, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi specializes in the treatment of heart and vascular, respiratory, digestive, neurological and eye conditions. Every step together. Learn more at everysteptogether.com To make an appointment call CCAD (2223). MOH-GK99608

10 10 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI RACE NUMBER You must know your race number in order to receive your Race Pack. Your race number will be published on our website, abudhabi.trathlon.org when online registration has been closed. RACE PACK Your 2018 Race Pack will contain the following: Branded triathlon bag, provided by Daman s ActiveLife Branded swim cap Race number and envelope (personalized if you signed up before 29 th Jan) Athlete identification pack (stickers sheet including supporter stickers, and wristband) Printed Athlete Guide Timing chip collect before you leave the Registration Tent After the event, Finishers will also receive: A 2018 Finishers medal 1 Free Finish Line Photo with your split times (providing you agreed to share your contact information with the race organizers when you signed up on Premier Online) IMPORTANT: Wristbands must be worn from the time you register until the time you check your bike out of Transition after the race. If you do not have a corresponding wristband, you will not be allowed to check your bike in or out of Transition SWIM CAP You will receive your swim cap as part of your race pack. Each start wave has an individual swim cap colour, so you will need to wear your designated swim cap during the swim. Don t forget to check your start time and start in the correct wave. Other waves may have the same colour swim cap as yours, or you may be in a start wave with two cap colours so be clear on your start time. RACE NUMBER Each competitor will receive a unique race number. If you do not own a race belt, attach your race number to the elastic band provided. While cycling your number must be worn on your back. While running, your number is worn on your front. PLEASE NOTE: PARTICIPANTS COMPETING IN A TEAM CATEGORY WILL BE SUPPLIED WITH TWO RACE NUMBERS AND SAFETY PINS TO SECURE THEIR RACE NUMBERS.

11 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 11 STICKER SHEET Peel off stickers and place on items as shown below BIKE STICKER Please attach this sticker onto the saddle post so that the number is clearly visible from both the left and right-hand sides. HELMET STICKER Please stick the number to the front and sides of your helmet IMPORTANT: Your bike and helmet numbers must be fixed to your bike and helmet prior to checking your bike into transition. Please do not remove your bike or helmet numbers until you have checked your bike out of Transition. This is important, as officials will check your bike and helmet number against your wristband number when you check your bike out. RACE BAG STICKER Attach the sticker to the strap of the race bag. SUPPORTERS STICKER On race day, stick your supporters sticker onto your biggest fan! 1234

12 12 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI TIMING CHIP Collect your timing chip after you have picked up your Race Pack in the Registration Tent. This will be activated for you by the timing staff. If you do not wear the timing chip correctly, we are unable to guarantee accurate results. You must wear the timing chip provided to you by the race organizers if you own a Championship Chip, these are not permitted to be used at the event. Before your race, securely fasten your chip around your left ankle and do not remove it during the competition (unless you are racing in a team event). If you are wearing a wetsuit during the swim, we advise that the timing chip is worn underneath. IMPORTANT: Timing chips must be handed in at the end of the race before leaving the finish area. You will be charged 200 AED for your chip if you fail to return it. RACE BAG You will receive your race bag at Registration and it can be used to carry your personal belongings, including any clothes you want to wear after the race. There will be a Bag Drop available on race day in the Race Village, where you can safely store your bag while you compete. IMPORTANT: Your race number sticker must be attached to your race bag before you leave it at the Bag Drop. To collect your bag, ensure that you are wearing your wristband with the corresponding number.

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14 14 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI RACE BRIEFING Race Briefing is compulsory for all athletes and will take place from on Friday 2 March, on the Grand Stand of the Race Village. After the Race Briefing, the Elite men will go head-to-head in their first race of the WTS season don t miss it! BIKE CHECK-IN Bike Check-in, taking place on Saturday 3 March, is located at Transition, near the Race Village on Yas Marina Circuit s Drag Strip at the following times: strictly controlled by wristband and race numbers. Please have your wristband and race numbers ready for inspection for bike check-in. All bikes must be racked personally onto the racking area which is allocated to your wave. Each racking area will be marked according to your start wave. Racking positions will not be numbered individually BIKE SUPPORT Our partner, BeSport Bike Shop, will be available for any last-minute tweaks you may need on the following times: In transition on Friday and Saturday morning during bike check-in In their tent in the Event Village on Thurs 1 st March (11.30am - 6pm), Fri 2 nd March (7.30am - 6pm) and Sat 3 rd March (7am - 6pm). During Check-In, a safety check will be carried out on your bike and helmet. Please ensure the following to ensure a quick and efficient bike check-in: Safety first your bike must be in good working order or you will not be allowed to start Helmets must be worn and fastened Handlebar plugs must be present and secure, and brakes must be in good working order Ensure your tyres are pumped to the correct pressure Race numbers must be securely attached to your bike and helmet before you enter Transition To ensure bikes remain secure, entry into and exit from Transition is BeSport are also offering a bike unboxing / boxing services at the Crowne Plaza from 12pm - 6pm from Tues 27th Feb - Fri 2nd March (unboxing) and from 12pm - 6pm on Sun 4th Mon 5th March for boxing. This is a chargeable service, please ITU@besport.ae for details and to book a time slot. TRANSITION Ensure that your race equipment is arranged neatly next to your bike within the area allocated to your start wave. Please be mindful of other competitors when setting up your transition area. No equipment is allowed in the aisles, before or during the competition. Personal belongings, other than your race equipment, are not allowed in Transition and should be safely stored at the Bag Drop.

15 Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) Abu Dhabi Aviation in partnership with National Ambulance have delivered World class aero medical clinical care to ADNOC Group. This is the first dedicated HEMS operation in the UAE with further expansion plans to cover the country. Transporting patients outside the scope of traditional land based ambulances with a high level of care from point of origin to definitive clinical care. Oil Support Seismic / Construction Fire Fighting Photography Flight Charters Aerial Application Helicopter Medical Services (HEMS) Search and Rescue (GHQ) Training / Simulator Center Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul (MRO) Phone: Fax: P.O.Box 2723, Abu Dhabi, UAE adava@abudhabiaviation.com How can we serve you? ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 15 PLEASE NOTE: ONLY YOUR RACE EQUIPMENT CAN BE LEFT IN TRANSITION AREA. THE RACE ORGANIZERS ASSUME NO LIABILITY FOR LOST PROPERTY. Please ensure that you bring all the equipment and nutrition that you will need: Bike Helmet Running shoes (we recommend On Running shoes) Hydration and nutrition (we recommend water, Aqualyte, Mule Bars or Gu) Race belt or elastic, and number Optional: Sunglasses Cycling shoes (if using clip-in pedals) Towel Cap / visor Socks MEDICAL SERVICES A team of highly trained staff, paramedics and doctors from National Ambulance will take every necessary precaution to ensure the safety of all athletes, supporters and visitors onsite. There will be manned emergency and service points along the course. All medical incidents around the venue site and Expo must be reported to your nearest Information Point. Medical staff will be dispatched to the appropriate location. For your safety, and the safety of your fellow competitors, we request that you follow the instructions of our onsite medical staff at all times.

16 16 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI THE COMPETITION START TIMES Final briefings will take place 15 minutes before the start of each wave in the Swim Start assembly point. IMPORTANT: Your personal start time will be published on the website closer to race day. We reserve the right to amend the times should a delayed start occur or for safety reasons. COURSE DESCRIPTIONS IMPORTANT: All Age Group races take place on a SIMILAR course but with differing numbers of laps. Please familiarize yourself with the buoys for the various distances in the swim, and different turning points on the Bike and Run courses.

17 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 17 WETSUIT USE The water temperature is taken one hour before the start of each event. Using the below table, the start official will announce whether or not wetsuits will be permitted to be worn during the swim. Notice will be posted at the information centre in the race village, as well as at the swim start. The average race course water temperature for March at the race venue is 22 C, so we expect wetsuits to be optional. If you choose to wear one, we strongly recommend you wear your race chip under your wetsuit and write your name inside your wetsuit to avoid mix-ups in Transition. SWIM START The Swim Start assembly point is located in front of the team villas. Please arrive at the Swim Start 20 minutes before your start wave Please listen to and comply with announcements from staff and officials Technical Officials will move each wave onto the pontoon in time for your start Your timing chip will be registered during check-in at the Swim Start Please line up across the whole length of the pontoon as instructed by officials You may only enter the water when instructed to do so Only start the race once the start signal has been given SWIM COURSE You will start your race in the water in front of the team villas and must follow the instructions of the race starter The length of the swim course is as follows: 750m single lap for the Sprint, 1500m single lap for the Olympic distance, and 1900m single lap for the Middle distance Lifeguards from our swim safety team will guide you and help if needed If you get into difficulty, lie on your back and raise your arm. A lifeguard will come to your aid and, if necessary, arrange a safety boat to take you out of the water At the end of the swim, you will leave the water using the swim exit ramp attached to the pontoon You must follow the signs to Transition and merge with the runners already en route to Transition You will follow instructions from the marshals and Technical Officials in order to flow through Transition in the correct manner After your swim, wetsuits may only be rolled down as far as your hips until you reach your bike. Wetsuits can be removed completely only when you have reached your bike rack. Please place your wetsuit next to your bike rack in a tidy fashion There will be a small changing tent for any athletes wishing to change in privacy

18 18 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI TRANSITION 1 Change at your rack (or in the small changing tent located in Transition) For those wearing wetsuits, please place your wetsuit next to your bike, NOT on the bike rack. All wetsuits look alike, so to avoid mix-ups, write your name inside your wetsuit. The organizers assume no liability for lost objects. Put your helmet on, and securely fasten it BEFORE removing your bike from the rack Ensure that you wear your race number and that you are still wearing your timing chip on your ankle for the bike section if not, report this to officials in Transition While cycling, your race number must be worn on your back Please note that nudity is strictly forbidden IMPORTANT: No cycling is allowed in Transition. Bikes must be pushed through the Transition exit until you are OVER the MOUNT Line, where you may mount your bike and start cycling. BIKE COURSE A clothed upper-body is mandatory No personal music devices are permitted The Mount Line is located shortly after exiting Transition The bike loops incorporate Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld Do not return to Transition until you have completed all of your laps You are responsible for keeping a count of the number of laps yourself. After the race, a timing mat on the course will verify whether you have completed the correct number of laps. Athletes will be disqualified for not completing the correct number of laps corresponding to their race course After you complete your final lap (Sprint - 1 lap, Olympic - 2 laps, Maxi - 4 laps), move into Transition, where you will be instructed to dismount BEFORE the Dismount Line Athletes are instructed to ride on the right and overtake on the lefthand side After you complete your final lap (Sprint - 1 lap, Olympic - 2 laps, Maxi - 4 laps), you will be instructed to dismount BEFORE the Dismount Line move before moving into Transition.

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20 20 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI IMPORTANT: DRAFTING IS NOT PERMITTED ABOUT DRAFTING DIAGRAM 1 Distance of drafting zone for all competitors. 3M 10M SPRINT/OLYMPIC: 10m & 20 secs MAXI: 12m & 25 secs DIAGRAM 2 Drafting A A has overtaken B B and B is now drafting the lead cyclist A. B must drop out of A s draft zone before attempting to repass A. A must move to the Right Hand Side of the road when safe otherwise A can be called for blocking. B can only overtake A on A s Left Hand Side. DRAFTING Drafting off another athlete or motor vehicle is forbidden. Athletes must reject any attempts by others to draft. An athlete is entitled to any position on the course, provided they get to that position first, and without contacting others. When taking a position, an athlete must allow reasonable space for others to make normal movements without making contact. Adequate space must be available before passing. An athlete who approaches from any position to take advantage of the draft is responsible for avoiding the draft BIKE DRAFT ZONE An athlete may enter a bike draft zone in the following circumstances: If the athlete enters the draft zone and progresses through it within 20 seconds then completes the overtaking manoeuvre For safety reasons 100m before and after an Aid Station or Transition area During an acute turn DIAGRAM 3 Blocking A A and B are maintaining adequate B separation between each other, even though they are abreast to one another. B is not drafting A in the instance. A however, is now in a BLOCKING position. If A remains on the Right Hand Side, A will recieve a blocking penalty. DIAGRAM 4 Drafting and not drafting A and B are maintaining adequate separation. C is not attempting to pass B. C is drafting B A and B are not drafting. C If the technical delegate excludes a section of the course because of narrow lanes, construction, detours, or other safety reasons Overtaking An athlete is passed when another athlete s front wheel is ahead of theirs Once overtaken, an athlete must move out of the Draft Zone of the leading athlete within 5 seconds Athletes must keep to their side of the course and not create a blocking incident. Blocking is where an athlete who is behind cannot pass due to the leading athlete being poorly placed on the course B A

21 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 21 DRAFTING PENALTIES It is forbidden to draft in a race declared as draft illegal (ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi is DRAFT ILLEGAL) Athletes who draft are subject to a time penalty sanction, and will be notified by Technical Officials Sanctioned athletes must stop in the next Penalty Box and follow directions from the Referee It is the sanctioned athlete s responsibility to stop in the next Penalty Box. Failing to do so will result in disqualification TRANSITION 2 All riders must dismount BEFORE the Dismount Line at Transition and push your bike to it s racking position Bikes must be returned to the same racking position Helmets may only be removed once your bike is racked There will be a small changing tent for any athletes wishing to change in privacy RUN COURSE While running, race numbers must be worn on your front A clothed upper body is mandatory No personal music devices are permitted After you complete your final lap (Sprint - 1 lap, Olympic - 1 lap, Maxi - 2 laps), enter the Finish Chute You are responsible for counting the correct number of laps according to your race course. After the race, a timing mat on the run course will verify whether you have completed the correct number of laps. Athletes will be disqualified for not completing the correct number of laps corresponding to your race course

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23 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 23 RELAY TEAMS If you are competing as part of a Relay Team, each individual team member must attend Registration. All team members must present a valid photo ID and sign the indemnity form before they receive their wristband. Each team will receive a Race Pack containing the following: 1 x swim cap, to be worn by the swimmer 2 x race numbers. One race number is to be worn on the cyclist s back, and the other on the runner s front 1 x sticker sheet, to be used on the cyclist s bike and helmet, as demonstrated on page 5 1 x body decal to be worn by the swimmer on the arm All Relay Team members must be fitted with a wristband at Registration. All Relay Team members will be allowed access into Transition. The Handover Zone is inside Transition. You must attach your timing chip to your teammate s left ankle before they are allowed to start their own leg of the race. To avoid congestion, only the cyclist should be in the Handover Zone ready for the changeover from the swim course to bike race. Likewise, only the runner should be in the Handover Zone for the changeover from bike race to running. During the race, three Relay Team members should never be in the Handover Zone at the same time.

24 SWIMMER Wear the timing chip around your left ankle under your wetsuit. After your swim, run into Transition, at the Handover Zone attach your timing chip to the left ankle of your cyclist. CYCLIST In the Handover Zone your helmet must be on your head, securely fastened and your race number on your back. Wait for your swimmer to attach the timing chip to your left ankle before you leave the Handover Zone. Remove your bike from its rack and make your way to the Mount Line. After the cycle you must rack your bike in its original position before running to the Handover Zone where you will attach the timing chip around your runner s left ankle. RUNNER In the Handover Zone, be ready with your race number on your front. After the bike has been racked, your cyclist will run to the Handover Zone and place the timing chip around your left ankle, following which you can then proceed onto your run. Make sure your race number is visible on your front as you cross the Finish Line. FINISHING TOGETHER / WorldGamesAD All relay athletes can finish the race as a team! There is a designated Relay Team Meeting Point at the beginning of the Finish Chute. When your runner enters the Finish Chute, you will be given access so you and your team can cross the Finish Line together.

25 THE ROUTE ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 25 *Course maps subject to change. Check abudhabi.triathlon.org for the latest maps.

26 26 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI The Other Side of the Race - Restaurants, Bars and Lounges - Boat Tours and Water Sports - Physiotherapy and Fitness Facilities... and more

27 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 27 OMAR NOUR S COURSE TIPS THE SWIM Abu Dhabi is usually wetsuit-optional (the organizers will let you know the day before your race whether you re allowed to wear a wetsuit dependent on the water temperature). If you are nervous about the swim, I recommend wearing a wetsuit as it gives you more buoyancy. However, be sure to practice in it before the race wetsuits can feel quite restrictive and take a bit of getting used to. WTS Abu Dhabi is a deep water start in Yas Marina (one of the most beautiful triathlon starts you ll ever experience) this means you ll be treading water at the start line because you won t be able to touch the bottom of the marina with your feet. Right before the horn goes, skull backwards with your hands and start a light kick this will get your body horizontal in the water and ready for a fast start. Many first-time triathletes worry about the swim start. You will be starting with hundreds of other triathletes which means there may be contact. If you re nervous, stay away from the pack position yourself to the side or at the back to give yourself some space. If you do get kicked or elbowed during your swim don t panic. Sit up in the water, take a deep breath and re-start at your own pace. The first section of the WTS Abu Dhabi swim is within the marina. It s flat, there s no current and its salty which will give you some buoyancy. All of this means your first part of your swim can be lightning fast make the most of it. On exiting the marina, you turn into a channel with a current. Depending on the tide, the current will help you in one direction and work against you when you turn back towards transition (or vice versa). I d recommend you take part in the swim familiarization the day before your race so you can get a feel for the current. When you re swimming into the current, shorten your stroke (less gliding) and try to find a good pair of feet to jump on (this means getting right behind someone swimming slightly quicker than you you should be tickling their toes with every stroke!) to conserve your energy.

28 28 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI THE BIKE The bike course is a gem you won t find another course like this in the world! Once you come out of transition, you head straight onto Abu Dhabi s F1 TM track, Yas Marina Circuit. There s quite a few turns on the track so be alert and make sure you re comfortable handling your bike. You ll be fine on either a TT bike or a road bike just don t expect to be settling into your TT bars for long periods of time. You ll see lots of spikes in power as you accelerate out of turns you re not going to be locking in a consistent wattage for the race. Once you ve completed the F1 circuit, you ll head out onto the roads of Yas Island. It s a fairly flat course (around 80m elevation) so there s no need to put in any mountain training in preparation! THE RUN Coming off your bike and into your run can feel a little uncomfortable your quads will feel heavy at first, but I promise, as the run progresses they will loosen up. I recommend shortening your stride a touch as you set out on your run (to match the cadence from your cycle) once your legs loosen up, you can start to move back into your regular running gait.the weather in Abu Dhabi is perfect for triathletes in early March (average temperature is a warm 23 C, with highs of 29 C ) but it can feel warm when you re racing. Make sure you hydrate up on the latter parts of the bike course in preparation for your run, and don t skip aid stations during the run. It s a flat, fast and furious run course.be ready! TRANSITIONS The fourth leg of your race! A good transition can make or break your race. My top tips for transition are: Practice your transitions before the race and then set it up for your race exactly as you did in practice. Know your transition area like the back of your hand there will be thousands of other triathletes taking part, so it s easy to lose track of where your transition area is. Before the race, walk through the route from the swim exit/the cycle exit to your transition so you don t get lost in the race-day excitement!

29 PARA RACE ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 29 WHAT IS THE PARA RACE CATEGORY? For the first time, the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi will host a dedicated wave for Para triathletes. The Sprint Para Wave, which will take place on Saturday 3 March, and will consist of the following Para-athlete categories: PTWC/PTHC: This category includes athletes who predominantly use a wheelchair for their daily ambulation. This includes athletes with comparable activity limitation and an impairment of, but not limited to: muscle power, limb deficiency, hypertonia, ataxia, and athetosis. Severe cerebral palsy athletes will use a recumbent hand-cycle on the bike course and a racing wheelchair on the run segment. It is divided into two subclasses, H1 which is the most impaired and H2 being the least impaired. PST2: This category includes athletes with comparable activity limitation and an impairment of, but not limited to, limb deficiency, hypertonia, ataxia and or athetosis, impaired muscle power or range of movement. Common health conditions could include a complete brachial plexus, above elbow amputee, double below knee amputee or severe cerebral palsy. In both bike and run segments, amputee athletes may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices. PST3: Common health conditions could include partial brachial plexus, moderate multiple limb impair-

30 30 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI ments or moderate cerebral palsy. In both bike and run segments, the athlete may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices. PST4: Common health conditions could include a below knee amputee, below elbow amputee and mild cerebral palsy. In both bike and run segments, the athlete may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices. PST5: Common health conditions could include a below knee amputee, below elbow amputee and mild cerebral palsy. In both bike and run segments, the athlete may use approved prosthesis or other supportive devices PTVI: This category includes athletes with total or Partial Visual Impairment (IBSA/IPC defined subclasses B1, B2, and B3): To be eligible, athletes must meet the criteria outlined below. One guide is mandatory throughout the race and each competitor must ride a tandem during the bike segment. a) B1: Visual acuity poorer than LogMAR 2.60 b) B2: Visual acuity ranging from LogMAR 1.50 to 2.60 (inclusive) and/or visual field constricted to a diameter of less than 10 degrees c) B3: Visual acuity ranging from LogMAR 1.40 to 1 (inclusive) and/or visual field constricted to a diameter of less than 40 degrees. We are excited to welcome Rio 2016 Paralympic Gold medallist Andy Lewis to race for the first time #WTSAbuDhabi! MuleBar energy bars, energy gels and protein bars for exercise and everyday needs. Our products are natural, delicious and have a high nutritional value. Available at Go Sport, Spinneys, Waitrose, Adventure HQ, Zad

31 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 31 AFTER THE COMPETITION After the Finish Line, head to the Recovery Area where you will receive your medal and refreshments. All timing chips must be returned in the Finish Area immediately after the race. Failure to do so will result in a AED200 fee, which is charged by the organizer after the event. BIKE CHECK-OUT Bike Check-Out is at the same location as Check-In. Do NOT remove your wristband or tear off your bike number before Check-Out. If you do not have a corresponding wristband, you will not be allowed to check your bike out of Transition. RESULTS After the competition, provisional results will be posted at the Information Desk in Race Village area. Results will also appear online shortly after the race at AbuDhabi.triathlon.org and will be sent via SMS to the phone number you have registered with Premier Online. The live results link for Junior and Age Group races can be found on our website. Medals will be awarded to the top three athletes in each Age Group Category. LOST AND FOUND Any lost items which have been handed in can be collected from the Race Village Information Desk. BIKE CHECK-OUT TIMINGS: Bike Check-Out is at the same location as Check-In. Do NOT remove your wristband or tear off your bike number before Check-Out. If you do not have a corresponding wristband, you will not be allowed to check your bike out of Transition. All bikes must be removed before bike Check-Out closing time the organizers reserve the right to remove any unclaimed equipment after this time.

32 32 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI ELITE RACES For all Age Groupers, make sure you visit the Race Village on Friday 2 March in order to Register (if you have not yet done so), take advantage of the age group swim familiarisation, attend compulsory Race Briefing, grab a bite to eat and stay to watch 120 of the world s best triathletes go head-to-head right here on Yas Island. Elite Male Race: Starts at 13:36 on Friday 2 March Elite Female Race: Starts at on Friday 2 March For the best view of all the action around the course, we invite you to visit our Race Expo and to take a seat in the Grandstand.

33 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 33 HOW TO DEAL WITH RACE-DAY NERVES You ve been training for the ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi for months, as well as eating all the right foods to reach peak fitness. But how do you deal with the build-up of anxiety you are feeling as the day of the race nears? While it s natural to feel a certain amount of anxiety before a big race, it s important to remember that you can turn that into your advantage rather than allowing it to overwhelm and negatively impact your performance. We spoke to Dr. Pilar Lachhwani, a psychiatrist at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, who has these top 3 tips on how to how to handle race-day nerves. TOP 3 TIPS ON HOW TO HANDLE RACE-DAY NERVES Learn to relax Your triathlon training schedule should not only include swimming, cycling and running, but also other types of exercise in which you can learn to relax your body and mind. Pilates and yoga are great for triathletes, says Dr. Lachhwani. Not only are you increasing your flexibility and core strength, you are also helping to relax your mind and body. And this could be a crucial advantage on the day of your competition. Take a deep breath Learning to breathe properly is also key to helping you slay that anxiety before you get to the starting line and to keep it under control during the race. Not only does it help you to prepare for the race, but breathing exercises can boost the levels of oxygen in your blood, which will help your overall performance. Breathing exercises are very good for helping to calm a person, says Dr. Lachhwani. You will have to practice it over time to perfect your technique, but you can practice this anywhere by breathing through your nose and out of your mouth. Total recall Staying positive is essential to keeping you on track for an anxiety-free race. Just like the breathing exercises, it can also take time to learn how to stay positive especially midrace or if you ve hit a wall. Dr. Lachhwani recommends that athletes use positive self-talk to help them overcome anxiety. This, she says, can be anything from remembering a positive moment in a previous race to reminding yourself that you ve experienced this before and that you got through it. It s also important to look around you, says Dr. Lachhwani. You will see that you are not the only person struggling or dealing with anxiety.

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36 36 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI GET THAT FEELING! A huge #WTSAbuDhabi welcome to all the young athletes taking part in the 2018 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi! We hope you are excited to join the biggest triathlon in the Middle East on 2 & 3 March. This guide is a must-read as it gives you all the information you need to know about the race including information on the registration process, schedules, routes, transitions, rules, those allimportant race results and how you can watch the world s best go head-to-head in the Elite Race. We want to ensure you have an incredible experience at this year s ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi so whether you are competing in your first ever triathlon or are a seasoned pro, please take the time to read this guide. We would also recommend regularly checking our website for the most upto-date information. Throughout the weekend, we d love to hear about your experience. Don t forget to ask your families to take pictures and videos of you and share them with us on our social media pages using #WTSAbuDhabi. Good luck, have fun and enjoy the race! There s no need to be nervous. Triathlon is as simple as Swim, Bike, Run! For more information, go to

37 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 37 BEFORE THE COMPETITION RACE PACK Your race pack will contain the following items: Event T-shirt for kids under 12 years old OR Branded triathlon bag, provided by Daman s ActiveLife for kids aged 12 years and over Wristband Swim cap (For Triathlon Race Packs only) Race number (s) (two race numbers for teams) Sticker sheet (Not included in Mini 1km Race Pack) Collect your Timing Chip at Registration after you have picked up your Race Pack, it will be activated (by the Timing Team) in the Registration Tent. You will also receive a Finishers Medal and online Finisher s Photo Certificate, along with post-race refreshments. RACE NUMBER AND ELASTIC BAND If you do not own a race belt, attach your race number to the elastic band provided. If you are participating in the duathlon or the triathlon, you must wear your race number on your back during the cycle, and on your front during the run. WRISTBAND Please wear your wristband from the time you register until your race has finished. For those cycling, your wristband is required to collect your bike after the race, and will be checked against the numbers on your helmet and your bike. TIMING CHIP 1234 Please securely fasten your chip around your left ankle prior to starting your race, and do not remove it throughout the competition, unless racing in a team event. If you fail to wear your chip correctly, we cannot guarantee you an accurate result. Those taking part in the Mini 1km will not receive a timing chip. IMPORTANT: Timing chips must be handed in at the end of the race before leaving the finish area. You will be charged 200 AED for your chip if you fail to return it. Please only use the timing chip we supply as no other timing devices will work.

38 38 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI STICKER SHEET Peel off stickers and place on items as shown below A. BIKE STICKER Please stick this sticker onto the saddle post so that the number is clearly visible from the left and right hand-side. B. HELMET STICKER Please stick the number to the front and side of your helmet as per the sticker instructions IMPORTANT: Your bike and helmet stickers must be attached prior to checking your bike into Transition. After the race, please do not remove your bike or helmet numbers until you have checked your bike out of transition because officials will check them against your wristband number before you are allowed to check your bike out. C. RACE BAG STICKER Attach the sticker to the strap of your bag if using the Bag Drop Facility. D. SUPPORTERS STICKER Stick your supporters sticker onto your biggest fan on race day, and make sure they re cheering you on during your race! 1234

39 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 39 THE COMPETITION RACE BRIEFING Race briefings will take place 10 minutes before the start of each race. VENUE The Race Village is located at Yas Marina with entry via gate 28 of Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island. DATE Kids and Junior Races take place on Friday 2 March. The School Sprint and School Sprint Team races take place on Saturday 3 March. A podium medal for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers in each category (except the Mini 1km) will be awarded at the official prize presentation taking place at the completion of the Junior Races on Friday 2 March. Families! Don t forget to join the FREE Family 1km Fun Run at 2.30pm on Friday. It s completely un-timed and open to all (including those pushing strollers).

40 40 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI EVENT RULES 1. Any person who participates in any portion of the event without properly registering will be disqualified. 2. Race numbers will be provided in your Race Pack. Athletes must wear a race number on their back during the cycle and on their front for the run. Attaching the race number to a race belt or elastic band allows for the switch from back to front. 3. Races will start as per the schedule. 4. All athletes completing the race will receive a finishers medal. 5. Medical staff will be on stand-by in the event of any medical issues. If you require any assistance please inform the nearest marshal (on the cycle/run) or lifeguard (on the swim). 6. Final and split times will be taken when crossing the timing mats. 7. Participants must cover the prescribed course in its entirety to obtain a race result. 8. It is the participant s responsibility to know the course, regardless of the actions of race staff or volunteers. 9. Participants should refrain from unsportsmanlike behaviour, including the improper use of language directed towards an official or other participants. Any such violation shall result in a variable time penalty or disqualification at the discretion of the Race Director. 10. No participant shall accept from any person (other than a race official) physical assistance in any form. 11. No participant shall leave any equipment or personal gear on the race course. 12. No person shall participate in the Kids / Junior Duathlon / Triathlon unless unless they have trained adequately for that specific event and age category. 13. IT IS ABSOLUTELY MANDATORY TO HAVE AN AWESOME TIME!

41 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 41 THE COURSE KIDS MINI 1KM COURSE Ferrari World Yas Drag Racing Circuit F S Yas Marina Circuit Viceroy Hotel S F Run Course 1km run in a clockwise direction Start Finish *Course maps subject to change. Check abudhabi.triathlon.org for the latest maps.

42 42 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI KIDS TRIATHLON 9-11 yrs Ferrari World Yas Drag Racing Circuit F S Swim Course 120m - 1 lap Bike Course 3.5km - 1 lap Yas Marina Circuit Viceroy Hotel Run Course 1km - 1 lap S Start Transition F Finish JUNIOR DUATHLON yrs and yrs Ferrari World Yas Drag Racing Circuit F S Run Course 1km - 1 lap Bike Course 7km - 2 laps Yas Marina Circuit Viceroy Hotel Run Course 500m - 1 lap S Start Transition F Finish *Course maps subject to change. Check abudhabi.triathlon.org for the latest maps.

43 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 43 JUNIOR TRIATHLON SUPER SPRINT yrs and yrs Ferrari World Yas Drag Racing Circuit F S S F Swim Course 400m - 1 lap Bike Course 10.5km - 3 laps Run Course 2.5km - 1 lap Start Transition Finish Yas Marina Circuit Viceroy Hotel

44 44 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI Kids & Junior Triathlon SWIM RULES 1. The swim is anti-clockwise, out-andback direction starting and finishing on the designated pontoon landing. 2. The event swim cap must be worn throughout the swim. 3. Any swimmer wearing any artificial propulsion device, including fins, gloves, paddles or floating devices of any kind shall be disqualified. 4. Swimmers may use any stroke to propel themselves through the water, and may tread water or float. 5. A participant may rest by holding an inanimate object such as a buoy, boat, rope or floating object. 6. A swimmer experiencing difficulty and in need of assistance must raise an arm overhead, pump it up and down and call or seek assistance. 7. Swimmers, who have received assistance, whether voluntary or involuntary, must retire and withdraw from the remainder of the race, unless such assistance did not aid the swimmer in making forward progress. 8. No swimmer shall return to the race if the official rendering assistance requests that the participant withdraws from the race or receive medical assistance.

45 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 45 BIKE TRANSITION (T1/T2) 1. Before the race, all triathletes are to rack bikes in the designated Transition area. 2. Athletes are to lay their equipment needed for the cycle and run in a neat area beside their bike. 3. During the race only the official entries and exits are to be used. 4. Triathletes must have their helmet on and securely fastened prior to taking their bike out of transition; no triathlete will be allowed to leave transition without a securely fastened cycling helmet and covered shoes. 5. A bike bottle may be carried on your bike in an appropriately fitted bike cage. 6. No parents/coaches/spectators are allowed in Transition whilst the race is in progress. 7. On completing the cycle course triathletes are to rack their bikes, remove helmets and ensure they have running shoes on before exiting the bike transition and commencing the run segment of the course. 8. Once you have completed the race you will be allowed back in to Transition to collect all your personal belongings during the designated Bike check-out times. 9. Team s riders and runners are to wait beside the bike in Transition for handing over the timing chip For teams, the timing chip is your batton. BIKE RULES 1. Understand the bike course map before race day. 2. The bike course is to be ridden in an anti-clock-wise direction. 3. Triathletes are to keep to the right at all times and overtake on the left. 4. Exit the bike course after 1, 2, 3 laps (depending on your race category) and re-enter the bike Transition Area. You are responsible for counting your own laps, if you do not complete the correct number of laps you will be disqualified. 5. Your torso should be covered during the cycle leg. RUN RULES 1. The run is in a clockwise direction so please keep to the left of the running path at all times. 2. Your upper body must be covered at all times on the run portion of the race. 3. Shoes are compulsory. 4. No form of locomotion other than running, walking or crawling is allowed. 5. One Water Station will be provided on the course and one at the Finish Line.

46 46 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI Kids & Junior Duathlon Stick your bike number onto your bike saddle post before check-in. 1. For identification purposes during check-in, have your race number and wristband ready to gain entry to transition. 2. Attach the helmet stickers to the front and sides of your helmet and wear your bike helmet fastened on your head when you come to check in. 3. Bikes must be racked personally onto the racking area allocated to your wave. Each racking area will be marked according to your start wave. Racking positions will not be numbered individually. 4. Please take time to familiarise yourself with your surroundings and your position in relation to the rest of Transition. This will speed up your transition process when you are in the race. KIDS & JUNIOR DUATHLON RUN RULES 1. The run is in anti clockwise direction so please keep to the right of the running path at all times. 2. Your upper body must be covered at all times on both the run and cycle portion of the race. 3. Shoes are compulsory. 4. No form of locomotion other than running, walking or crawling is allowed. 5. One Water Station will be provided on the course and one at the Finish Line. Mini 1km The Mini 1km start under the Start and Finish event arch, and will run in an anti clockwise direction, out and back from the main event start. Participants will receive a medal when crossing the finish line.

47 ITU WORLD TRIATHLON ABU DHABI 47 FUN FOR ALL IN THE VILLAGE! Whether you re racing, supporting a friend or family-member, or simply looking for a weekend out with the family, check out our hot picks happening in the Event Village this weekend! Free Family Fun Run! Join us on Friday 2 March at 2.30pm for our un-timed 1km family fun-run. It s open to all - walk, run, push a stroller just cross the line with a smile on your face! Official Merchandise Take home a memento of your weekend from the official ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi merchandise booth! Food Trucks Indulge in delicious treats from the food trucks there s something to delight every appetite! Retail Area Stock up on the world s best sports products and equipment in our Retail Area including On Running, 2XU, Compressport, Gu and much more. Kids Area Trampolines, an inflatable rodeo, the Etihad simulator, photo booths and the Special Olympic World Games activations your kids will have a ball in our Kids Area! Health Screening Prevention is better than cure! Head to Daman s ActiveLife tent for a free health screening. Win Amazing Prizes! We ll be giving away some amazing prizes over the course of the weekend in the Event Village don t miss out on the chance to win Etihad flights, On Running shoes, 2XU wetsuits and more!

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