Leeds becomes 2016 host of ITU World Triathlon Series race

It has now been officially confirmed that Leeds will host the 2016 ITU World Triathlon Series race.

Last month, it was reported thatLeeds was chosen by British Triathlon as a leading candidate to replace London to hold the annual sporting event, and now a stage of next year’s World Triathlon Series has now been added to the city’s calendar, BBCreports.

Leeds’-own heroes Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee will now be able to compete in front of hometown crowds and significant media coverage, as the International Triathlon Union (ITU) World Triathlon Series is broadcast live around the world.

Olympic champion Alistair Brownlee said: “It’s fantastic news that Leeds’ bid has been successful.”

“I am sure the crowds will come out in force to see a major triathlon event in Leeds for the first time, and I’m sure it will be a brilliant event.”

The event in Leeds would see Olympic-distance elite men’s and women’s triathlon races start with a 1500m swim in Roundhay Park, before taking on a 40km bike route into the city centre where they would complete a number of circuits, and then finish with a 10km run through Leeds in front of possible crowds of up to 40,000 spectators.

The stage in Leeds is replacing World Triathlon London as London’s Hyde Park is set to undergo construction work in 2016 for the build of a cycling ‘super-highway’ through the city.

The calendar of ITU World Triathlon Series events for 2016 is expected to be announced by the ITU in May.