After extensive discussions with Bermuda’s health and government authorities, the Bermuda Local Organising Committee and World Triathlon have made the difficult decision that the 2021 World Triathlon Sprint and Relay Championship will not take place this year.

Bermuda was ready to welcome hundreds of participants from all over the world from October 15 to 17. However, changing conditions on the ground demanded that the programme’s safety plan be reviewed.

Using a tool provided by the World Health Organisation, the Organising Committee and the World Triathlon conducted a risk assessment on the event. The analysis considered the island’s recent spike in Covid-19 infections in addition to the Bermuda Hospital’s elevated Covid-19 patient intake, and the Organising Committee in consultation with World Triathlon made the decision not to proceed with the event.

The health and safety of all athletes, coaches, staff, contractors, volunteers, and the people of the island was the primary consideration.

“The whole World Triathlon family is disheartened that the global pandemic continues to impact our events, but we are committed to returning to Bermuda.

“We are confident in the island’s rigorous pandemic management and reputation of delivering safe, outstanding sporting events. Conversations are taking place presently to identify other exciting future opportunities, including a triathlon on the island of Bermuda,” said World Triathlon in a statement.

Hazel Clark, chairman of the World Triathlon Series Bermuda said, “We are disappointed that Bermuda will not be able to stage the Championship in 2021 yet appreciate that safety for Bermuda’s residents and visitors will always be the priority.

“The Bermuda Tourism Authority, our local organising committee, and sponsors have invested significant resources in preparation for this pinnacle endurance event, and their efforts are gratefully acknowledged.

“We look forward to repurposing the resources and building on the groundwork that has been laid for a future event that will benefit all of Bermuda.”