World Triathlon Para Series Kicks Off in Devonport: Aussie Paralympic Hopefuls Ready to Shine

The World Triathlon Para Series is about to take Devonport by storm from 15th to the 17th March, 2024. Australia's top para triathletes will be competing against the world's best, all with their sights set on the Paralympic Games in Paris.

With only ten races left before the Paralympic Qualification Period ends on July 1st, every point counts. The stakes are high, as the top nine athletes in most events, and a select few in the women's PTS4 category, will secure quota spots for their nations.

Fresh off their impressive wins at the Oceania Triathlon Para Championships in Stockton, Nic Beveridge (PTWC), Sam Harding (PTVI), Thomas Goodman (PTS2), Jeremy Peacock (PTS4), Jack Howell (PTS5), Anu Francis (PTS2), Grace Brimelow (PTS4), and Maggie Sandles (PTVI) are hungry for more success on home soil. They'll be joined by an impressive line-up of Aussie talent, including Glen Jarvis (PTS2), David Bryant (PTS5), Justin Godfrey (PTS3), Liam Twomey (PTS4), Sally Pilbeam (PTS4), and Caroline Baird (PTVI).

Keep an eye on rising star Jack Howell, who's coming off his first Continental-level triumph in Stockton. The 20-year-old's win propelled him to sixth in the Paralympic Qualification rankings and gave him a newfound confidence as he prepares to race in one of his favorite locations on the circuit.

"The race at Devonport is one of my favourites on the circuit," Howell said. "The swim provides the surf swim which is not seen as much overseas, the ride following the coastline is relatively flat and has great views, and you can't go past the run – wide streets that are flat and create some very quick run times."

Howell, who recently relocated to the Gold Coast to train under National Junior Coach and Olympian Brendon Sexton, will have a wealth of support cheering him on, including his entire family, his girlfriend's family, and some family friends.

"It's also important and awesome that I can showcase my abilities to people that may not get the opportunity to see this status of racing whilst I'm overseas," Howell said.

In addition to the World Triathlon Para Series, the Devonport Triathlon will feature the Oceania Triathlon Sprint Championships, Oceania Triathlon Mixed Relay Championship, Australian Elite Sprint Championships, and age group events.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to witness Australia's Paralympic hopefuls in action as they chase their dreams of representing their country in Paris. It's going to be an unforgettable weekend of triathlon action in Devonport!