Posted: February 10, 2004

Triathlon: Honolulu, Hawaii Latest Addition to 2004 ITU World Cup Circuit

The 2004 International Triathlon Union (ITU) Triathlon World Cup schedule became even more exciting Thursday when the International Triathlon Union and USA Triathlon confirmed that Honolulu, Hawaii, will host an ITU Triathlon World Cup on the 18th of April, 2004.

Honolulu was chosen in part because it will also host the ITU Age Group Triathlon World Championships in October 2005, ITU President Les McDonald confirmed.

"It is ideal when a future world championship venue has the opportunity to host a World Cup event on the course in the year prior," McDonald said. "It is a good learning experience for the organizing committee and the athletes alike. "Many of us broke into the world of endurance sport at the Honolulu Marathon and it is always wonderful to return."

The popular vacation destination is well set up for athletes and the course is among the most scenic in the world. Athletes will swim a 1.5km course in the temperate waters of Waikiki Beach, cycle along a 5 lap 40km, spectator-friendly course that climbs up to the spectacular Diamond Head Volcano, while the 10km run will loop around Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head.

The Honolulu World Cup 2004 will be an important opportunity for athletes attempting to qualify for the Olympic Games to gain valuable ITU points.

"We are truly excited about how this has all come together," said USA Triathlon Deputy Director Tim Yount.

The race will be televised worldwide to more than one billion homes. The ITU television package includes one hour of national coverage in the United States, Japan, and throughout the world, with prime coverage in Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

The 2004 ITU Triathlon World Championships will be held in Madeira, Portugal on the 8 - 9 May.

For more information visit www.triathlon.org.