Launceston triathlete Jake Birtwhistle will make his first trip overseas in more than a year to compete in Japan this weekend.
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The 26-year-old is one of six Aussies heading to the start of the World Triathlon Championship Series at Yokohama.
It's been a long time since my last international race, so I'm just happy to be back.
- Jake Birtwhistle
"I'm really grateful that we have the opportunity to race in Yokohama this weekend," Birtwhistle said.
"It's been a long time since my last international race, so I'm just happy to be back.
"I'm looking forward to putting my training to the test in Yokohama this weekend. It's a great opportunity to see where my training is at, but more importantly to simply be back racing this top level competition again ahead of Tokyo in a few months."
ELSEWHERE IN SPORT:
The world no.4 triathlete will be joined by no.25 Aaron Royle in the elite men's competition.
World numbers 23 and 32 Natalie Van Coevorden and Emma Jackson will also make the journey for the elite women's for Australia.
The Yokohama leg of the revamped World Triathlon series will see the four triathletes compete in a 1.5km swim, 40km cycle and 10km run.
Australian and international top-ten paratriathletes Clint Pickin and Katie Kelly will join the team, hoping for strong performances to secure Tokyo spots.
Harry Murtough
Born and raised in Launceston. BA of journalism from Monash University. Sports reporter covering basketball, netball and cricket.
Born and raised in Launceston. BA of journalism from Monash University. Sports reporter covering basketball, netball and cricket.
