World Triathlon

A duathlon was held at the Olympic Youth Duathlon Centre in Zambia for the first time this weekend, with more than 100 young athletes taking part in the run-bike-run race.

“Holding a duathlon at the OYDC is a monumental first step in the extended development of multisport races in Africa,” said ITU President and IOC Member Marisol Casado. “We are looking forward to continuing to work on the important project of integrating triathlon as a sport for the athletes at the OYDC.”

Ranging in age from 16-20 years old, athletes had the option to participate in two race distances - a 2km run, 8km cycle, 1km run event or the longer 5km run, 20km bike, 2.5km run.

Supported by the Athletics Federation, the National Sport Council joined the historic event as the guest of honor while hundreds of spectators lined up to cheer the young duathletes on. Spectators and athletes were treated to music from local popular artists and the OYDC’s own cultural dance troupe.

“With this we can now say we are looking forward to coach training and development support from ITU and like the unexpected heroes we keep producing in the other sports at the Centre, Zambian triathletes will soon stand on the medal podiums at Africa and on world stages,” said OYDC Centre Director Clement Chileshe.