There have been some changes to the event venue layout which will result in a better event for everyone.

The heart of the event - the Festival Village - will now be located on the northern side of the finish line. The Village will contain Athlete registration, Sport & Lifestyle Expo, Hospitality areas as well as Food & Beverage facilities. Age group transition will now be located just to the south of the finish line within the new $32 million redeveloped SBP. The opening and closing athlete parties will now take place in the function precinct approx 400m north of the Athletes Village.

These areas will now combine to provide an integrated, bustling, central triathlon haven that will feature a continuous schedule of racing, entertainment and action over the 5 day festival.

Special Gold Coast ITU Triathlon World Championship rates only available when booking through USM EVENTS.

Host Hotel! – The Marriott Surfers Paradise Resort & Spa
Five star elegance and Queensland charm combine at this Gold Coast Resort Hotel. The Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa is situated in the heart of the Gold Coast, within easy reach of pristine beaches, fashionable shopping and picturesque hinterland valleys.  Set amidst lush tropical gardens and the Gold Coast's only private salt water lagoon, The Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa is renowned for its Pacific Ocean views and contemporary resort restaurants & luxurious day spa.

New Accommodation Partner! – Azzura Surfers Paradise Resort
Situated in the heart of Surfers Paradise, within walking distance to beaches and the famed Cavill Avenue shopping, dining and entertainment precinct. This brand new 4 star resort offers the ultimate escape and features a recreational deck, swimming pool, spa and gym. Unwind in the spacious one and two bedroom luxury suites with full kitchen, lounge, dining room and laundry facilities, whilst enjoying panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean or Gold Coast Hinterland from your balcony.

For more accommodation options & specials visit: www.worldtriathlongoldcoast.com/visitor_info_accom.html
 email kezzia.taylor@usmevents.com.au or by phoning +61 (0)7 5449 0711.
 
Support those who support the World Championships!

Queenslander Courtney Atkinson held off reigning world champion Javier Gomez to win silver in the second race of the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World Championship Series in Madrid, but the day belonged to Great Britain youngster Alistair Brownlee.

 “I’m very disappointed,” said Luxford. “I was on the pace in the swim, but once I got on the bike I just didn’t seem to have any energy and I knew I was in trouble early on. There’s nothing wrong with me – it’s a pretty tough course and I just didn’t have it today.”

 “I’m ecstatic with that – it was an awesome race,” said Atkinson. “When I’m fresh, I know I’ve got a good kick, so I thought I would just try and sit on Javier and see how I could go at the finish. I didn’t want to get into a dual with him over a long period because he’s such a solid runner and been one of the best in the world for such a long time. I’m not sure where he’s at in terms of his fitness at the moment, but I’m pretty happy with a silver medal.”   

A large chase pack which included fellow Aussie Brad Kahlefeldt and Olympic gold medalist Jan Frodeno failed to make any significant inroads, consigning that group to a deficit of a minute and a half as they began the run.  Kahlefeldt made up significant ground over the final stages to finish ninth, while James Seear (Qld) was passed by Olympic champion Jan Frodeno with 50 metres to go to finish just outside the top 10. 

Triple world champion Peter Robertson had a poor swim, emerging a minute behind the leaders and pulled out of the race towards the halfway stage of the bike leg. Victoria’s Gareth Halverson finished 22nd.

Queensland’s Annabel Luxford, the sole Australian female in the field led throughout the swim and the initial stages of the bike before wilting badly and eventually pulling out of the race early in the run. She was far from the only casualty as hot conditions and a hilly, challenging course took their toll in the Spanish capital.

A warm up for the Gold Coast ITU Triathlon World Championships!

With just over 11 weeks to go registrations are on the rise for the 11th Airlie Beach Triathlon, to be held in the sunny and scenic Whitsundays on 30th August,  Competitors to date include many World Championship contenders and also our repeat performers who look forward to this ever popular event every year, including Queensland's Under 23 elite's.  Chris Rawling is one such competitor.  Chris suffered a serious accident in the 2008 event during the cycle course but after a few months of critical back surgery and rehab, Chris is now back in shape and itching to take a top spot in Airlie Beach again, competing as always against his rivals Sam Betten and Anthony McSweeney. 

You too can be part of this great event - jump online at www.whitsundaytriclub.com and register now.  Early bird offer closes 17 July, with the opportunity to win free entry and post-race massage.  Email admin@whitsundaytriclub.com

The Gold Coast ITU World Triathlon Festival needs YOU! As the largest international triathlon event for 2009, we are looking for a team of enthusiastic, friendly and reliable people to ensure the easy going and professional atmosphere of the Gold Coast is conveyed to the international crowds. Here is your chance to be a part of 5 days of incredible multi sport and entertainment action! Whatever your tastes, age and ability there are many available roles and opportunities for all volunteers, each essential to the success of the event as a whole. To register your details click here or for further information visit worldtriathlongoldcoast.com.au.

Australia’s Gold Coast is celebrated as a hugely popular and friendly holiday city. To ensure you make the most of your time on the Gold Coast we’ve listed some new ‘must see & do activities’. Very Exciting – Get your heart pumping on Dreamworld’s Big Six Thrill Rides Very Natural –Soak up the sunshine along 72km of pristine Gold Coast beaches Very Tasty – Eat fish and chips from Charis Seafood by the water while you feed the friendly local pelicans Very Indulgent – Take in breathtaking panoramic views on board a chartered Gold Coast helicopter Very Active – Tee off in style at one of the 40 championship and resort golf courses on the Gold Coast. Plan your trip now! For further information contact the Gold Coast Booking and Information Centre 1300 309 440 (National), +61 (0)7 5569 3380 (International), or visit www.verygoldcoast.com.

Any queries relating to event entry should be directed to info@usmevents.com.au, or by phoning +61 (0)7 5449 0711.

Questions relating to qualifying for an ITU event need to be directed to your National Federation.