Young local multisport athletes are likely to welcome The Kathmandu Coast to Coast multisport event’s introduction of the 'Elite Youth' division in the two-day individual race. 

The addition is designed for athletes aged 23 and under as a stepping stone for aspiring multisporters before they set their sights on the pinnacle of multisport achievement – the Longest Day World Multisport Championships.

"We are excited to introduce the 'Elite Youth' category, as it represents a significant step forward in nurturing the potential of young multisport athletes,” race director Glen Currie said.

"This category offers a fantastic opportunity for emerging athletes to test their skills on our iconic course. With names such as Sam King, Jenna Williams, Finn Mckenzie and Campbell Gray on the start line – the racing will be on."

Glen said the flexibility of the Elite U23 Division allows competitors to enter the category later in the year. 

"We understand the importance of providing young athletes the time and opportunity to prepare for the event. This aligns with our commitment to supporting their growth, mirroring the approach we've successfully implemented for our Longest Day Elite athletes. 

“I do not doubt that our next Sam Manson or Simone Maier [the Wānaka winner of the 2023 longest day event] will be amongst the athletes racing for this title," he said.

Wānaka exercise physiologist Val Burke said there is an increasingly challenging environment to run multisport races and the Coast to Coast has done a “really good job” keeping it going.

There are fewer race options in New Zealand and “having an under 23 pathway will only strengthen [the event]”, she told the Wānaka App.

“Having an under 23 elite category is consistent with the International Triathlon Union and UCI models, which gives the young athletes a chance to cut their teeth against others their own age before entering the stage of the Senior Elites. It is exciting for young racers coming into the sport.”

Val said it can be “a challenging transition” from under 23 to senior racing and her only reservation would be the minimum age requirement.

Prizes for the male and female winners of the Youth Elite category are a trophy and cash prizes of $1500 each, an NZSKI 3 Peak Pass for the 2024 Season and a $1000 Interislander voucher.

PHOTO: Supplied