AQABA SET FOR ‘WORLD-CLASS WEEKEND’

Aqaba is set for a world-class sporting weekend with two big international events taking place side-by-side.

While the region’s top golfers and a sprinkling of overseas big names like Darren Clarke are taking part in a major regional golf tournament at the Ayla Course, Asia’s top triathletes will compete in the 2017 Asian Triathlon Championship close by.

The final preparations have been done and the local triathlon community is buzzing with what is set to be the biggest event staged since Aqaba hosted the ITU World Cup in 2006.

"We are so proud to host this world class event,” said Dr. Tareq Al Khayyat, the Jordan Triathlon Association President.

“We have done many events before and we are looking to make this one the best yet.” Al Khayyat stated that event carries with it world ranking points which has enabled them to attract the best.

"It will be a tough race and should be a thrilling fight all the way to the finish line as we have almost 140 triathletes flying in from across the continent."

Arab and African Triathlon Union President, Ahmad Nasser, has flown in to oversee the preparations and has been impressed.

"Jordan has the opportunity this weekend to show it is a leading country for hosting events of this stature,” he said.

“Triathlon is enjoying considerable popularity here and by hosting this event, it can only be good for the continued growth of the sport here.”