Gold Coast wins bid to host 2018 World Triathlon Series Grand Final

Queensland has won the rights to host the 2018 ITU World Triathlon Series Grand Final and World Championships on the Gold Coast.

Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Commonwealth Games Kate Jones said the triathlon events were a significant win for Queensland.

“The Gold Coast’s international reputation as a premier holiday destination and Queensland’s experience hosting international sporting events made for a compelling bid,” Ms Jones said.

“The International Triathlon Union World Series Grand Final and World Championships in September 2018 are expected to attract more than 17,000 visitors and generate more than $19 million in visitor spending for Queensland.

“Triathlon is a Commonwealth Games sport and today’s announcement confirms the Gold Coast is already reaping the benefits of GC2018 by attracting new major sporting events.

“Major international sporting events like this play a big role in driving tourism on the Gold Coast and creating jobs for Queenslanders.” 

The successful bid by Triathlon Australia in partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), IRONMAN Asia-Pacific, and City of Gold Coast was announced today by the International Triathlon Union (ITU).

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said major triathlon events were a perfect fit for the city.

“The Gold Coast has produced a number of champion triathletes and the sport has a natural affinity with our city’s outdoor lifestyle,” Cr Tate said.

“The city continues to work closely with the State Government to attract major events like the 2018 ITU World Series Grand Final and World Championships to the Gold Coast – so it’s fantastic to add this to our growing list of events.

“Together with the Commonwealth Games, the ITU World Series Grand Final and World Championships will cap off what will be a watershed year for the Gold Coast in 2018.”

Triathlon Australia CEO Anne Gripper said, “This is fantastic news for the sport of triathlon in Australia. To have the world’s best elite and age group athletes competing on the Gold Coast in 2018 provides Australian triathletes of all ages with a great incentive to train and compete over the next three years as they strive to wear the green and gold on home soil.”

IRONMAN Asia-Pacific CEO Geoff Meyer said, “This is a fantastic result for Queensland and triathlon, we are very excited to be able to host the world’s best ITU age group and professional athletes here on the Gold Coast.”

The announcement is the latest addition to a growing calendar of triathlon events for the state including the Gold Coast ITU World Triathlon Series and Gold Coast Triathlon Luke Harrop Memorial which was held in April.

Media contact:          3719 7530 (Minister Jones’ Office)