This Thursday marked the first day of activities for athletes and press in Bahrain Challenge, a competition that will distribute $500,000 in awards. Some of the greatest Triathlon names in the world will be present, including the champions of Kona 2014 Sebastian Kienle and Mirinda Carfrae.
In the morning, there was a press conference, attended by 4 men and 4 women prominent in the extensive Startlist (images courtesy from MundoTRI.com.br:
The unconditional support of local authorities was highlighted at the press conference.
Always smiling, Rachel Joyce hopes to get the highest place on the podium and win Carfrae.
The Swiss Caroline Steffen has the tough task of overcoming opponents that beat her throughout the year.
Winner of the Ironman 70.3 Miami, Michael Raelert is one of the best runners in the race, including the ITU athletes, but can the German ride with his german fellows super cyclists?
Sebastian Kienle points British Tin Dom, third in the 70.3 Worlds, as the favorite. The champion in Kona can benefit from the new rule of drafting distance: 20 meters.
Jodie Stimpson is one of the athletes of the ITU which opens in the distance. She should make a strong run in the race.
The champion of Hawaii in 2012, Pete Jacobs, can be a surprise.
The $ 500,000 prize money attracted the best athletes in the world.
Confident, Carfrae is said a little tired of the season, but motivated by the presence of the ITU athletes.
Dirk Bockel had a quiet year, but says he is very well prepared for the competition.