Tri Yas to be held at twilight

The second triathlon at Yas Marina Circuit will start in the early evening to help competitors beat the heat.

The Tri Yas triathlon will take place under flood lights this year in an effort to help competitors beat the heat.

The April 13 race will have sprint and Olympic categories, and a junior biathlon for younger competitors.

The 11-14 age group will bike 5.5 kilometres around the Formula One track before completing a 1.5km run. The 15-17 age group will ride 11km on the bike followed by a 3km run along Yas Marina Circuit's roads. The biathlon entry fee is Dh75.

"With the addition of the junior biathlon we're anticipating an even bigger turn-out," said Nick McElwee, director of marketing and communications at Yas Marina Circuit.

Last year's inaugural event had 600 entries and received praise from professionals and amateurs for been a well-run event.

The Olympic distance, favoured by professionals and seasoned athletes, consists of a 1,500-metre swim around the marina, a 40km bike ride on the race track and a 10km run to finish. The entry fee is Dh350 of Dh600 for a team.

Beginners are more suited to the sprint distance, which features a 750-metre swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run. Entry is Dh275 or Dh500 for a team.