ITU News Update - April 7, 2004

Dimitry Gaag (KAZ) and Akiko Sekine (JPN) Qualify for Athens Olympic Games

The sun was blazing in Subic Bay, Philippines as athletes took to the course in the 2004 Asian Regional Triathlon Championships. An Olympic qualifying spot was up for grabs for the winner of both the men's and women's events.

The men's event nearly came down to photo finish as former ITU World Champion Dimitry Gaag (KAZ) just edged out teammate Danyl Sapunov (KAZ) for the win and the qualifying spot for the Athens Olympic Games. Hirokatsu Tayama (JPN), also strong on the run, rounded out the podium in third position.

In the women's event Akiko Sekine (JPN) easily won the event and earned a spot on the start line in Athens. Akiko was followed across the line by Hongni Wang (CHN), who was almost a minute back; Machiko Nakanishi (JPN) finished in third position.

ITU Official Apparel Supplier

The Updated bid criteria for National Federations and Event Organizers is now available on www.triathlon.org at the following link: http://www.triathlon.org/itu/itu-2004/bids/bidding-criteria-call-for-bids-04.pdf

You will find the following information available in this document:

1. ITU World Championship Events which are open for bids
2. ITU World Cup & World Series that are open for bids
3. ITU Event Selection Process
4. List of documents to be included in the bid application
5. Minimum Financial Requirements

World Cup Series T-shirts available here

New President of Swiss Triathlon Federation

Update Courtesy Andreas Mehr: General Manager of the Swiss Triathlon Federation:

At the annual meeting of the delegates of the Swiss Triathlon Federation April 3rd 2004 the delegates have elected a new president, Werner Bhend, a banker, and a new chief of elite sports, Dr. Markus Kälin, a biologist. Both come from a triathlon background.

Anne-Marie Gschwend was president for 4 years and much progress was made under her leadership. Anne-Marie remains an honorary member of the National Federation.

Update From Mazatlan ITU World Cup

Update Courtesy: Francisco Ayala, Technical Director of the Great Pacific ITU World Cup 2004

We would like to invite you to beautiful Mazatlan; and let you know we are available to answer any questions you have about accommodation, transportation and more.

The organizing committee will take care of airport transportation for all teams who send their itinerary prior to April 19.

In reference to the visas this shall be ordered before march 20, the
following information must be sent by fax:
If you require a visa please fax the following information to 001 5255 30030343 / 001 5255:

- Complete Name
- Date and Place of Birth.
- Nationality.
- Copy of Passport.
- Triathlete acreditation (Coach, Doctor)
·- The counsel (city) to which we send your visas

Update from Rincon ITU International Triathlon, Puerto Rico

Organizers of the Rincon ITU International Triathlon would like to remind you that the first 50 entrants to the event receive free accommodation. The event will take place June 13, 2004.

For more information visit: www.PuertoRicoTriathlon.com

© www.triathlon.org 2004