The Qatar leg of the TTF Kids Triathlon Series was hosted by Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas, in partnership with The Triathlete Factory (TTF) and A13 Academy.

The event offered young athletes across the region the exciting opportunity to try the three legs of a triathlon: swimming, cycling and running. The competition marks an empowering moment for children, promoting resilience, teamwork and healthy lifestyles through active participation.

Following the successful launch of the series in Bahrain last month, the Qatar event saw more than 120 young athletes competing passionately, representing various countries in the race for the title of Gulf Triathlon Champion.

The TTF Kids Triathlon Series will conclude with a final event on December 7 in Saudi Arabia. The top ten finishers in each age group and gender category earn points, with rankings based on cumulative results from their best two showings out of the three races. In the event of a tie, the athlete with the most race participation will be declared the winner.

“My love for kids has always been the magical force that keeps me moving forward,” said Sumaya Hussain, the founder of The Triathlete Factory Academy.

“It was my dream to create a triathlon championship exclusively for children, and in 2023, that dream came true with the first Kids Triathlon Championship in Bahrain.

“My dream then grew even bigger, leading to the expansion of the TTF Kids Triathlon Race Series into Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

“Each race brings more joy, and I’m committed to bringing this unique concept to even more countries next year, giving more kids the chance to experience the empowerment that triathlon training provides for a brighter, healthier future.”

Abdulla Shaheen Al-Kaabi, CEO and founder of A13 Academy, added: “We are pleased to organise the TTF Triathlon Race in collaboration with our partners, providing our young athletes with a valuable opportunity to participate and compete in a triathlon, which helps raise health awareness and encourages them to engage in this sport.

“The Gulf region lacks sufficient triathlon events for youth, and we are committed to delivering an exceptional edition this year, thanks to the support of TTF and their cooperation in providing internationally certified Qatari referees from the World Triathlon.

“A13 Academy plays a pivotal role in its partnership with the Qatar Cycling and Triathlon Federation to promote the sport of triathlon, discover new talents, and develop the national team.

“We are also grateful to Hilton Salwa Resort for hosting our race in their outstanding facilities, meeting all our needs and creating an ideal family-friendly and touristic environment for all participants.”

With world-class facilities tailored for sports and wellness, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas served as an ideal host for the exciting event.

The resort’s General Manager, Andre Borg said, “We are absolutely thrilled to host such an inspiring event for children at our resort.

“Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas is dedicated to promoting active lifestyles and fostering young talent, and our facilities and sports academy are designed to support events like this that encourage youth engagement in sports.

“We look forward to hosting more events that empower and inspire the next generation.”

The 120 participants were from 26 countries, with races for five age groups: 6-7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13, and 14-15 years old, with awards for the top three finishers in each category.

Distances in each leg varied by age group. The swimming leg ranged from 25metres to 300m; the cycling leg from one kilometre to 10km and the running leg from 600m to 2.4km.

In addition to the races, the day was filled with energy and excitement, with a live DJ on hand, children’s entertainment activities and a thrilling awards ceremony. Families enjoyed a fun-filled day as the young athletes showcased their resilience and determination, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated sportsmanship and community.

Winners from the Qatar leg

Male

• Aljaber, Jassim (14-15 Years)
• Alkaabi, Fahad Abdulla (12-13 Years)
• Alalawi, Hussain (10-11 Years)
• Al Mesned, Abdulla Nasser A A (8-9 years)
• Enaytallah, Youssef Salah (6-7 Years)

Female

• Melville, Isla (14-15 Years)
• Selcuk, Idil (12-13 Years)
• Iudina, Aksinia (10-11 Years)
• Leblanc, Violet (8-9 years)
• Calahorra, Maddi (6-7 Years)

The next round of the TTF Kids Triathlon Series will take place in Saudi Arabia, where the final champions will be announced.

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas looks forward to future collaborations that continue to promote youth engagement in endurance sports across the Gulf.

GO: Visit www.salwabeachresort.qa or call 4423 6666 for more information.