Tri Liverpool, the exhilarating city centre triathlon event, is back for a fourth year in Liverpool. Taking place on Sunday August 14, Tri Liverpool general entry opens today at www.TriLiverpool.com.

British Triathlon, working in partnership with Liverpool City Council, aim to inspire anyone of any age and ability to #BeATriathlete in an Olympic and Paralympic Year. Entrants will swim, cycle and run past the city’s famous Waterfront Liverpool landmarks, including Albert Dock and Pier Head, with an iconic indoor transition within Echo Arena.

Tri Liverpool has gained national recognition for its urban city-centre course that caters for a diverse range of entrants. From complete beginners to those looking to qualify for the Great Britain Age-Group Team, competitors will complete the same course as the elite triathlon sporting stars. Entrants can choose to tackle one of three courses; Beginner, Sprint or Standard distance with the option to complete the Sprint distance as one of three team members in a group relay.

Nicole Barber Lane, who plays Myra McQueen in Hollyoaks, completed the bike section of Tri Liverpool’s relay in 2015 and said:

“Tri Liverpool 2015 was my first triathlon and I loved it. I’ve not got a fancy bike but I enjoyed the training and I loved the race day atmosphere. I’d like to see more women and more beginners like me take part and hope to be back next year doing the full triathlon.”

With first timers making up 22% of Tri Liverpool 2015 entrants, a focus on beginner training will once again encourage novice participants to get race ready. Special beginner GO TRI triathlon training sessions are provided year round at four Lifestyles Centres across the city.

Councillor Wendy Simon, cabinet member for culture, tourism and events, said:

“I watched the Tri Liverpool action this year and once again was so impressed with the dedication of all competitors involved. Tri Liverpool 2015 played a big role in raising the profile of triathlon not only in Liverpool, but nationally too with so many first time entrants and an increase in both local and female competitors. Liverpool City Council continues to work in partnership with Tri Liverpool in 2016 to ensure that this inclusive, diverse and exciting event continues to put the City of Liverpool on the UK sporting map.”

Following the success of 2015, Tri Liverpool will incorporate a weekend triathlon festival in 2016, , with wider activity for both entrants and spectators looking to try out triathlon inspired challenges. Triathlon specific companies, athletes and sporting brands will be on hand to offer expert advice..

Jon Ridgeon, British Triathlon director for major and national events said:

“This year Tri Liverpool saw more first time triathletes take on the sport than ever before and truly brought the city to life. Liverpool’s iconic landmarks made a fantastic backdrop to a day dedicated to celebrating each and every athlete taking on the course, from complete beginners to our elite champions. Tri Liverpool 2015 was a huge success and I look forward to an even greater festival of triathlon in an Olympic and Paralympic year.”

Early bird entry to Tri Liverpool opens today at www.TriLiverpool.com. GO TRI training sessions run all year round at Lifestyles Centres in Wavertree, Ellergreen, Garston and Peter Lloyd in West Derby. For more information on GO TRI please visit https://www.gotri.org