Mixed Relay Cup: Jonathan Brownlee to race in Nottingham

Brownlee confirmed to take on reigning World Champions at British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup

Olympic Silver Medallist, Jonathan Brownlee, is one of four British athletes confirmed to line up for the sport’s newest event, set to bring the city of Nottingham to life on Saturday 2 September.

The British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup will see 20 British and international quartets compete along Nottingham’s Victoria Embankment, swimming through the River Trent and travelling across Trent Bridge, before crossing the finish line in front of the iconic War Memorial.

Teams will comprise two men and two women, each completing a mini triathlon before tagging their teammate to do the same. The fast and furious racing style has seen the ITU World Championship race in Hamburg attract up to 250,000 spectators in the past, and the hope is that triathlon fans from the East Midlands and further afield will line the streets to capture the action later this year.

Olympic Bronze Medallist, Vicky Holland, is set to start in the inaugural event, with former ITU World Triathlon Champion, Non Stanford and reigning Commonwealth Champion, Jodie Stimpson also confirmed.

Brownlee said: “I can’t wait to be part of the British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup Nottingham. Mixed Relay racing is fast and exciting – perfect for spectators and great for competitors.

“We don’t get much opportunity to take part in events like this, so Nottingham will be a great opportunity to showcase the talent we have in Great Britain. I’d encourage everyone to come down and support.”

British Triathlon can also announce USA as the first international team to join the roster. As reigning ITU Triathlon Mixed Relay World Champions, spectators on site and those watching live on BBC One can expect a closely fought battle on the day. Athletes making up Team USA will be announced shortly.

Kirsten Kasper, USA elite triathlete, said: “The addition of the British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup Nottingham to this year’s race schedule is an exciting opportunity to continue to increase awareness of the event and provide us athletes with more chances to compete at this format.

“The Mixed Team Relay has been one of my favorite events each year, and last year’s race at the ITU Mixed Relay World Championships is probably one of my favorite moments of my triathlon career.

“I am looking forward to the event and hope to represent Team USA to the best of my ability.”

The news follows the recent announcement that Mixed Relay will join the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Programme, bringing a brand-new medal opportunity for athletes. With the rare chance for teams to hone their skills in the event, British Triathlon are planning to announce a number of international teams in the next month.

Further British athletes competing will be confirmed over the coming weeks, with teams announced in August. All athlete announcements are subject to fitness.

Access the best seats in the house by booking a spot in the grandstand, overlooking the swim start, action-packed athlete changeover zone and finish line. Tickets start at £10 (plus booking fee) and are available at http://www.seetickets.com/event/british-triathlon-mixed-relay-cup/victoria-embankment/1073825/?src=seesportmain.

For more information on the British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup Nottingham, please visit here https://www.britishtriathlon.org/mixedrelaycup.

The British Triathlon Mixed Relay Cup Nottingham is being organised by British Triathlon in partnership with Nottingham City Council and OSB Events.