14 of the top competitors to look out for in the Leeds Triathlon 2019
By Claire Schofield
Published 7th Jun 2019, 20:33 GMT
Returning for its fourth successive year, the ITU World Triathlon Series will see the world elite of the sport descend on Leeds this weekend (8-9 June).
There is a strong representation from Great Britain in both the men's and women's races, including local heroes Alistair and Jonny Brownlee, but the Brits will have to fend off some stiff competition to secure a place on the podium. Here are some of the top male and female competitors to look out for in this weekend's event.
The ITU World Triathlon Series will see the world elite of the sport descend on Leeds this weekend
Having taken some time out to focus on longer distance racing, the double Olympic champion will be making his return to the World Triathlon Series for the first time since the Grand Final on the Gold Coast in 2018.
Jonny secured a silver medal two years running in the Leeds races in 2016 and 2018, but illness last year forced him out of the race early. Brownlee will be hoping to secure his first win on home turf.
Currently leading the world rankings, the 29 year old American has won all three races in the World Series so far this year and will be aiming to secure her fourth. A strong all-rounder, expect her to be near the front throughout.
The 29 year old from France is currently leading the 2019 World Series rankings and he took the win in last month's race in Yokohama. He is known for being a good all-rounder and having a killer sprint finish.
The five-time World Champion has returned to the World Triathlon Series this year in a bid to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics next year, and is a long-standing rival of Alistair Brownlee. Expect the Spaniard to be among the top few.
The Leeds local is easily the strongest swimmer among the women and is typically always first to emerge from the water. A strong cyclist too, Learmonth could be a medal contender if she can nail the run.
