Hawrelak’s Homecoming: World Triathlon Returns to the River Valley

If you are only going to pin on a race bib once this year, make it the World Triathlon Cup Edmonton from July 16 to 19.

Yes, international racing is coming back to town, but that’s only half the draw. The bigger news for locals is that Hawrelak Park is finally back open.

The park had been locked down for massive renovations, pushing races into alternative venues. Now with the park being re-opened, it isn’t just convenient; it feels like the sport is finally returning to its roots in the river valley.

Stephen Bourdeau, CEO of Do North Events, hit the nail on the head regarding what this means for the community:

“We are very excited to once again be able to host the world at the World Cup Triathlon Edmonton this July. With the reopening of Hawrelak Park we are back with being able to host age group racing in this beautiful central Edmonton park and river valley. We invite all current and aspiring triathletes to sign up and join us for these memorable races.”

Notice that word "aspiring"? That is the vibe this weekend is going for.

World Cup weekends usually sound intimidating, but this years' schedule is heavily focused on everyday age-groupers and first-timers. Athletes will be racing on fully closed roads through Edmonton, along the grandstands and that blue carpet finish line.

"The World Cup in Edmonton has always delivered a picturesque high quality event, for the elites as well as the age group athletes, it is really great to have it back in Hawrelak Park", said Sebastian Porten, Executive Director, Triathlon Alberta.

If you are not quite ready to race, but want to join and see what the sport is all about? Come join us at the park anyway. The organizers are setting up food trucks, a beer garden, along with an expo, while watching the world's top pros tear through the exact same corners you ride on your Tuesday night training loops is genuinely fun to watch. It’s an easy sell for a Saturday afternoon with the family.

For the age group athletes who are maybe looking for something more? July is your shot at the next level.

The age-group races double as local qualifiers for the 2027 World Triathlon Multisport Championships that will be hosted in Edmonton! Qualifying this summer means you get to wear the maple leaf on home soil next year. Expect the sharp end of the pack to be highly competitive.

Bottom line: The local tri community has been waiting a long time for a proper Hawrelak reunion.

Grab your spot, or sign up to volunteer, at donorthevents.ca/worldtriathloncup.