Top T100 talent has low expectations for Triathlon World Tour atmosphere despite iconic locations

Frederic Funk does not have high hopes for the atmosphere at the T100 Triathlon World Tour.
aaron royle frederic funk challenge samarkand 2023 photo credit Challenge Family
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After the PTO announced their highly anticipated T100 Triathlon World Tour last month, much was made of the top tier head-to-head clashes triathlon fans would get to witness.

Whilst online engagement may be high, the number of fans on the ground at previous PTO events leave a lot to be desired says contracted athlete Fredric Funk.

The German star, speaking with TRI247 ahead of the start of the season, said that despite this, he’s still incredibly excited to race on the first edition of the tour in 2024.

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“I actually don’t have too high expectations of the crowd”

Last season, Funk raced on the PTO Tour in Ibiza and Milwaukee and shared that from his previous experiences, he didn’t have many expectations for the atmosphere at races this year.

aaron royle frederic funk challenge samarkand 2023 photo credit Challenge Family
[Photo credit: Challenge Family]

“From my experience of PTO races, I actually don’t have too high expectations of the crowd at the races, especially looking at the locations.

“I think apart from London and possibly Ibiza, the crowd at the races will be a little bit boring but I hope in the future that this can change.

“However, I think London, with the race in the middle of the city, should be really cool and that’s why it is one of the races I am looking forward to racing the most.”

“It’s a very elite circle of athletes”

Leaving the crowds to one side, Funk underlined his excitement to be racing the quality of opposition he will be racing on the T100 Tour, calling the opportunity an honour.

Frederic Funk finish line Challenge Samarkand 2023 photo credit Challenge Family
[Photo credit: Challenge Family]

“I’m really honoured and excited to be a part of this new T100 Triathlon Series. It’s a very elite circle of athletes which is basically made up of the best 20 in the world.

“It gives me a lot of motivation to have actually qualified and to get the chance to be a part of this. Now, I just want to prove myself and show that I deserve my spot.”

Written by
Tomos Land
Tomos Land is a triathlon & running journalist whose expertise lies in the professional world of short course & long distance triathlon, though he also boasts an extensive knowledge of ultra-running.

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