The second round of the ITU World Paratriathlon Event Series takes place in Penrith, Australia this Sunday. Four British paratriathletes are racing, and hoping to score valuable ranking points that will help them get to Rio this summer.

The Paratriathlon event takes place at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith over the sprint distance of 750m swim, 20km bike and 5km run. Vital ranking points are on offer that will qualify slots at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games in September.

Joe Townsend, Andy Lewis, George Peasgood and Clare Cunningham all make their 2016 international season debut and will be looking for solid results against strong opponents. All four have enjoyed good and consistent winter training at the Paratriathlon Hub in Loughborough. Lauren Steadman was due to join them following a training block in New Zealand, but has withdrawn through illness.

The Australian squad had an outstanding ITU World Championships in Chicago in September and will put up fierce opposition to all comers at their home event.

There are seven rounds of the ITU World Paratriathlon Event Series. Points won in the early rounds qualify athletes for the ITU Paratriathlon World Championships and perhaps more importantly, qualify national slots at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. Paratriathlon is set to make its debut on Copacabana Beach in September.

British athletes competing; Penrith ITU World Paratriathlon Event; 750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run; Sunday 24 April 2016:
PT1: Joe Townsend
PT2: Andrew Lewis
PT4: George Peasgood, Clare Cunningham

ITU World Paratriathlon Events 2016:
March 19-20: Buffalo City, South Africa
April 23-24: Penrith, Australia
May 14-15: Yokohama, Japan (held with ITU World Triathlon Series)
May 14-15: Aguilas, Spain
June 4-5: Strathclyde, Great Britain
June 19: Besancon, France
July 23-24: Rotterdam (ITU Paratriathlon World Championships)

Follow the World Paratriathlon Event in Penrith this weekend with live timing here.