The Australian Grand Prix Corporation is working with Melbourne local government and health authorities on a plan to allow fans to attend next year’s season opening round at Albert Park.
Melbourne is scheduled to kick off the F1 season on March 21, a year after a last-minute cancellation due to the coronavirus deprived Aussie F1 fans of one of the sport’s most popular events.
To stem the spread of COVID-19, the state of Victoria imposed a long drawn out strict lockdown on its citizens. But at the end of last month, after 111 days in isolation and with the virus subdued, Melbourne finally emerged from the restrictive period
Barring any catastrophic re-acceleration of the coronavirus pandemic in the country, Aussie GP organizers are confident that they will be able to welcome race fans to their event next March.
“We’re thrilled that the 2021 FIA Formula 1 World Championship will commence at its traditional home here in Melbourne,” said AGPC CEO Andrew Westacott.
“We continue to work closely with health authorities and the Victorian government as we develop our plans for fan attendance, which will be announced when finalised.”
Read also: Formula 1 releases provisional 23-race 2021 calendar
Westacott said that Albert Park’s specific environment represented the “perfect opportunity” to stage a safe event.
“We’re adopting a sensible, adaptable and flexible approach, ensuring that a safe environment for fans and participants is our top priority.
“Our massive parkland venue with 10.6 kilometres of track frontage provides us with the perfect opportunity to create a COVID-safe venue.”
As Melbourne returns to a semblance of normalcy, how the coronavirus pandemic will evolve in the coming months globally will determine the country’s policy regarding its borders.
Quarantine measures could be imposed on Formula 1 personnel entering the state, a decision that would further complicate logistics for the opening event of the 2021 season.
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Iconic style publication i-D and Dover Street market have teamed up for a special in-store pop up in celebration of i-D’s 40th anniversary.
A limited edition capsule collection from Dover Street Market collaborators include items from Comme de Garçons, Aries, Stüssy, IDEA and Futura 2000. A selection of t-shirts, hoodies, hats, accessories and a zine were handpicked by i-D are are available in Dover Street Market stores in London, New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo as well as online.
The collection features some throwbacks to defining moments from i-D’s history, including a Stüssy tee immortalising Goldie’s iconic i-D cover from 1996 and a limited edition Comme des Garçons zine featuring seminal Comme des Garçons spreads from i-D’s 40 year archive.
“It’s such an honour to bring together our community, friends and family to celebrate i-D’s 40-year legacy. We’re so grateful to Dover Street Market for their continuous support and to Aries, Awake NY, Cactus Plant Flea Market, Comme des Garçons, Futura 2000, Ghetto Gastro, IDEA, Juergen Teller, Kar L’Art de L’Automobile, Liz Johnson Artur and Stüssy for the incredible collaborations. We hope you enjoy!” said i-D’s Editor-in-Chief and Creative Director Alastair McKimm.
Launched in 1980 By Founder Terry Jones, i-D has since grown from a hand-stapled zine with DIY roots into a leading source for fashion inspiration, capturing the spirit, the rebelliousness, the style and the signature winks of some of the greatest names in culture over the past 40 years.
The Man with the Halo: Iron Again sequel begins with Don returning to the spot where the road accident took place in Hawaii, featuring roadside commentary from Don himself, complete with flashback footage and photography of him being taken to hospital moments after it occurred.
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This progresses to show his rehabilitation and training in the gym while wearing the medical halo device screwed to his head. Don gives a heartfelt and unfiltered account of his pain and anguish, as he sets his sights on his comeback race at the Boston Marathon, at which he finished in just over 2:49. The story jumps to Kona in Hawaii, with excerpts of his altitude training with commentary from his coaches and footage of his friends, family and fellow athletes embracing Tim days before the competition. The sequel finishes with video of Don competing at the World Championship and his own moving commentary on the experience and personal achievement after completing the race.
“It’s been a gruelling journey for the last eight months, and one I will never forget,” says Don. ”I have learned a great deal about myself this year and particularly how the mind is the most essential element in the recovery process. Knowing you have the strength and believing in yourself, above all else, is my lifelong mantra that I would love to instil in others who may have experienced similar episodes. I would like to thank my team, sponsors, friends, family and everyone who has supported me towards making my life liveable again. I have my sights set firmly on Kona 2019 and it’s business as usual.”
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This is the final chapter of the compelling guts and glory story that demonstrates how pure willpower can overcome any obstacle in sport,” says Olivier Bernhard, co-founder of On, the Swiss sportswear company. “After receiving such an overwhelming response from around the world to theMan with the Halo documentary following its release in May this year, we felt obligated to complete the tale of Tim’s heroism and accomplishment in reaching his goal across the finish line at Kona this year. It was quite an emotional day for all of us and a most memorable one for Tim, his team and entire family who have lived through the unimaginable pain and suffering that Tim endured during his fight to regain pole position at the top of his sport. This sequel brings the story full circle and shows how one man can conquer all.”
Know someone thinking about trying tri, but worried about what not being fit enough? Give them a gentle introduction to multisport by encouraging them to sign up for British Triathlon’s new campaign, Tri January
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Reigning ITU Paratriathlon World Champion and Strictly star Lauren Steadman is just one of the famous names backing the campaign. Other names include Deborah James and Lauren Mahon from BBC’s award winning You, Me and the Big C podcast, and TV sports presenter and world record holder for trying his hand at the most sports, Mike Bushell.
How to start running
What are the different triathlon distances?
The campaign looks set to encourage over 5,000 people to complete a triathlon in January. Each of the four famous faces will take on a different triathlon distance and encourage others to do the same – showing that triathlon is for everyone, regardless of age, ability or lifestyle.
So challenge your friend, loved one or colleague, to take on Tri January as an individual, or as part of a team.
They can swim or row, bike and run throughout the month by choosing their challenge and completing one of the distances below:
TEAM YOU, ME AND THE BIG C (GO TRI distance – 15km)
TEAM BUSHELL (Sprint distance – 25km)
TEAM STEADMAN (Standard distance – 50km)
There is no set formula for completing the challenge, as long as you achieve the distance. So, swim one day – or jump on the indoor rower if you prefer – bike the next and run the week after. Alternatively, they can complete the whole challenge all in one go. Tri January is designed to fit activity into even the most hectic of lifestyles. Their triathlon; their choice. Who knows they may become hooked and become your Ironman training partner…
Tri January aims to engage new participants and those with a ‘revolving door’ relationship with sport and physical activity with fun and accessible challenges, triathlon-style.
How to get involved
Sign up for free and receive a free Tri January campaign pack to help keep you on track, with a Tri January wall chart, stickers, diary inserts and other goodies from British Triathlon.
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As well as officially opening the show, the brothers will appear on stage for a Q&A session where they will share what it takes to compete at the very highest level in triathlon as well as tips and advice with the audience. From there the brothers will head to the OTE Sports stand to meet and greet fans, sign autographs and offer expertise on everything from nutrition to improving swimming technique.
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What’s next for the Brownlees?
To celebrate the Brownlees opening the event, OTE Sports has teamed up with the show to give visitors a chance to win one of 10 places at an intimate meet and greet with Jonny and Alistair. Visitors booking tickets using special advertised promo codes will be entered in the draw.
Other brands confirmed to be attending the show include Canyon, Sigma Sports, Chain Reaction Cycles, Vitus Bikes, Marin Bikes, Da Rosa, Orro, Argon 18, Muc-Off, Ribble Cycles, Zone 3, Wattbike, Schwalbe, Cannondale, GT, Fabric, Cervelo, Focus, Fulcrum, BKool, Tri UK, Fizik and 2XU.
A full line-up of inspiring cycling and triathlon stars will be announced ahead of the event.
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For more information about the London Bike Show and Triathlon Show: London and to purchase tickets, please visit – www.londonbikeshow.co.uk www.triathlonshowlondon.co.uk
The Outlaw X will celebrate the tenth anniversary year of Outlaw (pictured) and will take place in the grounds of Thoresby Hall in north Nottinghamshire on Sunday 22 September. The event, say the organisers, will provide triathletes of all abilities with an opportunity to finish the 2019 racing season on a high.
Following a 1.9km swim in Thoresby Lake, athletes will embark on a 90km ride through the Nottinghamshire countryside before completing the journey with a 21.1km run through 1,000 acres of English countryside within the grounds of the historic Thoresby Hall.
Once the racing is complete and the last athlete has been cheered across the line in front of the Grade 1 listed 19th century hall, the special Outlaw X Awards Party will begin, which will look back on 10 years of the Outlaw and celebrate the special individuals who have been integral to its journey.
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The Outlaw Half Nottingham and full Outlaw Nottingham have already sold out, so the organisers are expecting demand for entries to be high. You can pre-register here: www.outlawtriathlon.com/outlaw-x-pre-register/
Derby-based HUUB will be the headline partner for the 2019 Triathlon Relays Championships, as the national event returns to Nottingham for its 29th year in August.
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Competitors on 24 August are invited to a HUUB BBQ (Huubecue) and will have the opportunity to visit a retail stand with special weekend prices. There’s also the opportunity to take advantage of HUUB’s club kit offer with over 2500 different colour options.
The Triathlon Relays were established as a college project in 1991, and have grown from a few hundred lycra-clad friends swimming, cycling and running around the Regatta Lake at the National Watersports Centre into an event that attracts 2000 athletes aiming for national titles.
Dean Jackson of HUUB said: “I was there at the start of the relays and it’s great for HUUB to be involved. The event has so much history, and it’s an opportunity to meet and talk to a core audience of athletes. It’s one of the best and most exciting events in the calendar.”
The opportunity to show off HUUB’s new club kit line is another reason to partner with the event, which is being organised under the banner of the Tri Society for the first time following some internal changes to the structure at OSB Events.
The team remains the same that has won national awards in the past and the event will have Triathlon England national event status once again. The format is also unchanged with four competitors each completing a 500m swim, 15k bike and 5km run tag relay.
Event director, Iain Hamilton said: “The Tri Society name has always existed, but OSB Events grew so fast that we stuck with that name. The concept was that it was a group of people that really cared about triathlon, and so it makes complete sense that Dean and HUUB are involved.”
He added: “The HUUB Triathlon Relay Championships are for competitors, for clubs and most of all for fun. We hope to see lots of teams taking part again this year.”
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Find out more at HUUB Triathlon Relay Championships
Planning to head to the Triathlon Show: London this year? Then don’t miss our exclusive ticket offer! 220 readers can save £5 per adult ticket, giving you entry for just £11 rather than the usual ticket price of £16 by clicking on the link here.
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We are also excited to announce that the magazine will be bringing the 220 Triathlon expert stage back to the show for 2019. This is your chance to attend talks by the experts you see in the pages of the magazine every month, covering a range of topics including beginner advice, Ironman training, swim technique and nutrition. The 220 team will also be on hand to advise you on all things triathlon!
Editor Helen Webster said: “We love being a part of the show and the expert stage is the perfect way for us to bring you more of the advice, coaching and support you see in the magazine each month. We’ll have a full timetable of expert seminars running through the weekend with confirmed experts including the Swim Smooth team, coaches Mark Kleanthous and Joe Beer and nutritionist Kate Percy. We will also be announcing some top name athlete and VIP talks plus autograph signing sessions alongside the show over the next few days too, so watch this space for some very exciting news!”
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The Brownlee brothers are already confirmed to attend the show (see full story here), which runs at London’s Excel Centre from Friday 29th to Sunday 31st March. Read more about the show here and click this link to get your discounted entry tickets.
Yee exited T2 in 34th position, around 16 secs adrift of Schoeman and the leading pack, following a solid swim-bike effort.
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And within minutes of the run, Yee had marked down his intent, picking off the field one by one until he reached and overtook the South African. There was no catching the Brit now, and he finished 16secs ahead of his rivals to take the title. The race was then on for silver and bronze with USA’s Tony Smoragiewicz just edging out Portugal’s Joao Silver after a sprint finish. Schoeman would finish fourth.
Yee said: “I came here just to see how I was after four weeks in Stellenbosch training with the GB squad and it’s worked out really well! The bike was tough but kudos to the guys I was with who all worked really hard. I always say that in tri, you need a little luck. Today it went my way.
“I had a nightmare transition but apart form that I’m really happy. The headwind left me flagging in the second half, but I did my best to run strong.”
India Lee was Britain’s sole female representative, finishing 15th in a race won by Japan’s Ai Ueda.
Discovery Triathlon World Cup Cape Town RESULTS
Men’s race
Alex Yee, GBR, 52:04
Tony Smoragiewicz, USA, 52:19
Joao Silva, POR, 52:19
Women’s race
Ai Ueda, JPN, 57:23
Summer Rappaport, USA, 57:31
Tamara Gorman, USA, 57:44
Robin Brew, co-founder of the 220 Race Series: “Graham was one of the original good guys in the early days of triathlon in the UK and Europe. His heart was in the sport for the greater good of athletes and the wider promotion of triathlon. His contribution helped shape the Bath Triathlon and subsequent BBC TV coverage that propelled many of the world’s leading triathletes into the Spotlight. Graham, a modest and kind-hearted man will be very much missed and the era that benefitted owe him a debt of gratitude. On behalf of the athletes of the time, our condolences are lovingly sent to his family.”
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John Lunt, co-founder of the 220 Race Series: “I got to know Graham in the mid 80s helping him deliver some of John Lillie’s ground-breaking 220 races. (Bath, Swindon, Ironbridge). These were the sport’s showcase events and they propelled the sport onto TV. Not only a great athlete himself, but he was also a great person as well as a true pioneer in our sport of triathlon. He will be truly missed.”
Trevor Gunning, co-founder of the 220 Race Series: “Competitor, club official and race organiser. A leading figure in the sport and a great contributor to triathlon, he was also a driving force behind Bath Amphibians. Those early days of triathlon in the UK were fantastic fun and the inter-club rivalry a major part of the sport. Triathlon would not be where it is now if not for the contribution of triathletes like Graham. My sympathies go to his family and close friends.”
Spencer Smith, two-time ITU world champion: “Some of my fondest memories are of Graham screaming words of encouragement along the River Avon with my dad. Graham was always so supportive and loved the competitive spirit that was so strong in the early 90s in our sport. I am deeply shocked and saddened by Graham’s passing, he was a true gent and will be truly missed.”
Rich Allen, former British pro champion: “As a young professional triathlete in the early 90s I remember Graham not only delivering some of the best events in the world, but also his kind support of the young elites like myself. He would often check in with me to see if I needed help, and even after I retired he would message me to share old stories. A great friend to many and a pioneer of British triathlon, who will be sadly missed, but never forgotten.”
Ken Maclaren, athlete and coach: “Graham Matthews was one of the UK’s first triathletes with his first forays into the triathlon world happening pretty much as soon as the events started happening. By the late 1980s he’d started organising triathlons as well as taking part and became one of the foremost race directors who started to take race organisation into the professional era. He later teamed up with 220 founder, John Lillie to put on the 220 series of races which ran for several years through the early 90s. The Bath Triathlon with the BBC coverage became the premier domestic event. I was fortunate to be on the crew at many of those events and along the way shared many laughs, as well as training sessions, coffees, beers and fun times during the five years that I lived in Bath. Twenty years ago he moved out of race directing and re-trained as a chiropractor. We chatted every six months or so and like many of our ilk, hoped that we’d just go on and on and keel over on a run or bike at 99 and 3/4. Sadly not for Graham.”
Steve Trew, coach and commentator: “Being a triathlete in the 80s was like being a teenager in the 60s – you felt a bit special and that there was nothing that you couldn’t do. Graham Matthews epitomised that – ‘Race anywhere, race any distance, need a new race? No worries, I’ll organise it.’ Graham was a leader and a pioneer, we owe him a lot. Rest easy, my friend.”
Jasmine Flatters MBE, early BTA and ETU board member: “I was so sad to hear of the death of Graham Matthews this week. I’d been fortunate enough to have worked closely alongside Graham throughout the 90s on the pioneering 220 Race Series. He was a mild-mannered, softly spoken professional with an eye for detail. He was also the first proper vegan that I’d come across! Some years after the last Bath Triathlon, he tried to reinstate the event every now and again and he spent many hours on the phone to me trying to persuade me to join him. He went on to build a successful chiropractic business in Bath. He will be sorely missed.”
Kes and Carol Aleknavicius, friends and former colleagues: “We are deeply saddened to hear of Graham’s passing. We have great memories of working with Graham at the 220 races in the early days of triathlon. An accomplished triathlete himself, we remember when he completed the Hawaii Ironman in 1987 in a brilliant time of 10:55hrs. We had the pleasure of spending time with him at his second Hawaii Ironman in 1993 – Graham and Kes toughing it out on the Kona lava fields. To relax after the race we went together on a ‘guaranteed’ whale watching boat trip – we saw no whales! We went a second time – still no whales! This caused great hilarity and we laughed about it many times in later years. Graham was a most likeable character and will be sadly missed.”
Steve Rafferty, friend and coach: “It was great privilege to have known Graham when we met in the early days of triathlon, with Bath Amphibians and the famous Bath Triathlon. He was a training partner, mentor and friend, who I enjoyed many long runs, bike rides, swim sessions and many trips to events with. The Denmark Ironman trip in the late 80s was legendary for many reasons! RIP Graham.”
Lorraine Ferris, Tri Ferris Promotions: “Graham contributed a lot to triathlon in the early years, as race director of the 220 Bath Triathlon and helped to set up the first team of Moto officials in the UK. Our thoughts are with his partner and family.”
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Rich James: Graham was ‘Mr Triathlon’. His passion and enthusiasm led me to marshall 220 events with him in the early 90s and started me on my 25-year triathlon journey. He was a great communicator and was driving national events, along with Bath Amphibians Triathlon Club, with whom those of us from Kingswood Tri Club (Bristol) had a healthy rivalry that Graham loved to ‘stoke up’ in a friendly way. His passion led me to see him as immortal, you will be greatly missed Graham.”