World Triathlon

Today in Kitzbhel some of the pre-race favourites were on hand at the official pre-race press conference.  Also in attendance to welcome the athletes was the Mayor of Kitzbhel and Sheila OKelly, ITU Director of the BG Triathlon World Cup series.

Among the athletes who took time out of their pre-race preparation was Andrea Hewitt of New Zealand, who won her first career world cup title here last year.  Also at the press conference was the woman who delighted the Austrian crowds last year with a silver medal performance, Eva Dollinger.  Both will be heading to Beijing for the Olympics.  Fellow Austrian Simon Agoston, German Maik Petzold and Aussie Felicity Abram were also there.  Abram has had a stellar 2008 which includes four world cup medals and has risen to number one in the world.

Andrea Hewitt, last years winner:
This is my last race before Beijing. After here I go back to the New Zealand base in France for two weeks then on to South Korea before flying into Beijing just before the race. This is my third time in Kitzbhel and I really like racing here; hopefully I can repeat my win from last year.

Felicity Abram, World Cup leader:
Having not been picked for the Olympic Games my aim has been to race as many world cup races as possible. This is my third race in three weeks, so I am a little tired, but am happy to be here in beautiful Kitzbhel. After racing here I will take a break, but this is really the last main race of my season.

Eva Dollinger, Austrian Olympic Team, second last year:
I feel very much at home here and am in perfect condition. Anything is possible on Sunday but my main goal is of course the Olympic Games.

Simon Agoston, Austrian Olympic Team:
I am looking forward to racing in Austria this weekend, but have one eye on Beijing in four weeks time.

Click here for complete womens start list

Click here for complete mens start list

Live video will be streamed on triathlon.org, along with live timing and text available.  Click here for live coverage and times in your area

Click here for more event information including course details