World’s best return to Leeds for triathlon showdown

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Stellar line-up prepares to descend on city of Leeds for fourth leg of prestigious ITU World Triathlon Series, with more than 3000 triathletes set to cross the finish line over the weekend.

The stage is set for everyone from multi-sport first-timers to the world’s top triathletes to take on the AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds for the fourth consecutive year on 8-9 June 2019.

Great Britain are fielding what is perhaps their strongest ever World Series line-up; seeing all three Team GB triathlon medallists from Rio 2016 starting as part of a 10-strong British contingent. Alistair Brownlee returns to the World Series circuit for the first time since 2018 and will hope to retain the title he won two years ago on the same course. He is joined by Olympic silver medallist, Jonathan, who took silver behind his elder brother at the event in 2017. Famed for his blistering run speed, 21-year-old Alex Yee will line up in his home city for the first time, having burst onto the international circuit earlier this season by finishing second at WTS Abu Dhabi. Tom Bishop, who finished sixth at the 2018 AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds will also start.

With 40 of the world’s top 50 ranked male triathletes diving in on Sunday afternoon, including 2019 World Triathlon Series leader, Vincent Luis, five-time World Champion, Javier Gomez and winner of the 2018 World title, Mario Mola, the race will well and truly be on.

The women’s race too is set to have no shortage of drama. Having topped the Leeds podium last year, 2018 World Champion, Vicky Holland returns to the scene of victory looking for a repeat performance. Wearing number 2, Jess Learmonth starts as Britain’s top-ranked athlete after having collated two medals on the World Series circuit already in 2019, whilst 2018 World Championship bronze medallist, Georgia Taylor-Brown will look to go one-better than she did 12 months ago on the same course. With Non Stanford, Jodie Stimpson and Sophie Coldwell all flying the flag for GB, they’ll be guaranteed a hero’s welcome when they reach the city’s Millennium Square.

And the elite stars won’t be the only ones going for gold. The event features two-days of non-stop triathlon activity, spanning Roundhay Park to Millennium Square at the heart of Great Britain’s triathlon city. From first time participants putting swim, bike and run together with GO TRI, to the next generation of triathlon talent, to those vying for a British Championship title, the AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds will play host to thousands of participants taking on their very own sporting challenge.

Alistair Brownlee, double Olympic gold medallist, said:

“I’m really excited to be racing back here in Leeds. It’s a special event for me, not only because it’s Leeds, my home city, but you’re racing on the World Series circuit. It could well be one of the only World Series races (if not the only one) I do this year and so it’s very important to me. There’s a lot on the line but it’s super special and I’m looking forward to getting out there.”

Wayne Coyle, AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds Event Director, said:

“On behalf of the AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds, we’re so excited to see the culmination of months of hard work as we prepare to open the doors to the fourth edition of this fantastic event.

“Giving the opportunity for thousands of participants to achieve their triathlon goals simply wouldn’t be possible without the great support of our valued event sponsors and partners, alongside our phenomenal workforce and volunteers who dedicate their time to making the event a success. Here’s to a thoroughly memorable weekend of racing.”

Billy Mackay, AJ Bell Marketing Director, said:

“Following months of dedicated preparation, we’re delighted to see the AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds come to life this weekend. AJ Bell are proud to play a leading role in one of Great Britain’s premiere sporting events and wish each and every competitor all the best for a fantastic two days of racing.”

Cllr Judith Blake, Leader of Leeds City Council, said:

“It’s an absolute honour that Leeds is hosting the AJ Bell World Triathlon again this year. I’d like to wish everyone who is taking part, whether it’s in the mass participation event or the elite races, the very best of luck.”

“I am really looking forward to being there at the weekend and know there will be a fantastic welcome from the spectating crowds and a celebratory buzz in the city centre, especially with the Leeds in Motion festival adding a unique mix of street theatre, dance and circus-inspired events.”

A limited number of tickets for a spot in the P20 Grandstand are still available to purchase. They can be purchased at the event on Saturday from Roundhay Park registration desk or from the event box office adjacent to the grandstand on Sunday.

For all event information, view the dedicated AJ World Triathlon Leeds app at https://leedstri.app/

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AJ Bell World Triathlon Leeds – Great Britain team

Men: Tom Bishop, Alistair Brownlee, Jonny Brownlee, Alex Yee

Women: Sophie Coldwell, Vicky Holland, Jessica Learmonth, Non Stanford, Jodie Stimpson, Georgia Taylor-Brown

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