Triathlon: New Plymouth to keep event

The season-ending ITU World Cup triathlon got a big tick of approval from the sport's bosses yesterday and with it confirmation the race will return to New Plymouth for the next two years.

"We will definitely take up the option for the next two years," said race director Terry Sheldrake yesterday.

He quickly added there will be no change to the demanding circuit.

"I definitely think it is a good World Cup course and more testing than many athletes had thought.

"The course will not change."

A number of the triathletes here for the season finale, including New Zealanders Bevan Docherty - the two-time Cup winner - and Samantha Warriner had criticised the course - the 40km cycle leg in particular - for not being tough enough.

"New Plymouth is a superb venue," said Sheldrake.

"Right up with the best."

The last stop on the year-long ITU circuit will again be in New Plymouth next year.

The race is scheduled for November 12.