A new generation of Para athletes are ready to kick off the new Paralympic cycle in style this Saturday at the 2025 Para Cup Abu Dhabi. A brand new course, flat and technical, and perfect weather conditions are expected for the weekend, with some new faces ready to make their debut in the international circuit and the eyes set in the LA 2028 Games.
PTWC Men's
The men's race in the PTWC class is expected to be highly competitive, with Florian Brumgraber (AUT) as the favorite. As a medallist at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, his experience and form make him a strong contender. His teammate, Thomas Fruehwirth, who also medalled at the 2024 Para World Championships, will provide stiff competition. It will be great to see Semen Radaev (AIN) returning after a lengthy injury layoff, aiming to reclaim his competitive edge. Additionally, the debut of Aaron Kamnetz (USA) adds excitement, as he enters the scene as one of the promising talents targeting the LA 2028 Games.
PTS2 Men's
In the PTS2 category, expect a thrilling showdown between Kyle Stepp (USA) and Vasilii Egorov (AIN). Both athletes are known for their tenacity and speed, promising an engaging race as they vie for gold in the desert.
PTS3 Men's
The PTS3 race features Viktor Chebotarev (AIN) as the favorite on paper. However, this category will also introduce fresh talent like Stylianos Malakopoulos (GRE) and Valentin Hanzer (GER), both eager to make a mark. Additionally, Ryan Taylor (GBR) makes a comeback after a silver medal performance at the 2028 Gold Coast World Championships, adding depth to this highly competitive field.
PTS4 Men's
The PTS4 class is shaping up to be a battle for the podium with Mhlengi Gwala (RSA), Samuel Rodriguez Masian (ESP), and Bartomeu Caldentey Santandreu (ESP) highlighted as the frontrunners. However, Andrey Tolstikov (AIN) also poses a significant challenge and could disrupt the expected results.
PTS5 Men's
The PTS5 class features a smaller field with only three competitors: Oscar James Hawke (KEN), Aleksander Dennis Konyshev (AIN), and Ernestas Cesonis (LTU). The limited number of participants creates a unique dynamic, where every performance will count significantly towards their standings.
PTVI Men's
In the PTVI category, Łukasz Wietecki (POL) is keen to start this new Paralympic cycle on a strong note, aiming to secure important points in Abu Dhabi. He will face fresh competitors, including new faces like Abel Torreblanca Lopez and the Molina Martin brothers, Sergio and Diego (ESP), who are all looking to establish themselves in the competitive landscape of para triathlon races.
Women's races
The Women's field is smaller in size but has some strong names in contention. Anna Plotnikova (AIN) will be the only athlete competing in the PTS3 Female race, while another Spaniard, Andrea Miguelez Ranz, looks on paper like one of the favourites to get on top of the podium of the PTS5 category, along with Marta Dzieciątkowska (POL), on another anticipated battle between both of them. Chloe MacCombe (IRL) is also looking in great shape to start the season with a bang and grab some valuable points for the new Paralympic cycle.