WATCH: Will the Super League Triathlon return to Jersey?

The event, which was held on the Waterfront over the weekend, saw thousands of Islanders turn out to support 50 of the world’s top triathletes – including Britain’s Olympic silver medallist Jonny Brownlee – compete for £100,000 prizes in both the men’s and women’s events.

A total of £200,000 was made available from the Tourism Development Fund to secure the event, with the rest of the £1.3 million needed to host the event coming from sponsorship and the Super League Triathlon organisation.

Economic Development Minister Lyndon Farnham said the event had been a success.

He added: ‘The Saturday in particular was, I think, one of the best days Jersey has had in terms of a sporting event.

‘The Island should feel proud of itself. We were putting ourselves on the world stage and there was a good supportive crowd.

‘There was a really good atmosphere, with the crowd mingling with the athletes which is pretty rare for such a big sporting event.’

The minister added that he would be talking to the triathlon organisers about bringing the event back.

‘We want to start the talks as soon as possible,’ he said. ‘We would look to grow the event for next year and include more mass participation age-group events. If that can bring another two to three thousand people to the Island then that is what we want.’

It is thought that the athletes, coaching teams and TV broadcasters who travelled to the Island for the event booked about 1,000 hotel-bed nights between them.

Senator Farnham added that the benefits from the event went beyond boosting tourism.

‘The athletes have not only been great ambassadors for their sport and countries but they have immersed themselves in our Island life.

‘If that encourages more Islanders and children in particular to take up a sport – whether that is triathlon or swimming or cycling or whatever it might be – if they become more physically active then that is a big win.

‘I have been really taken aback by how these professional, dedicated athletes have come to Jersey and engaged with the community.’

Full coverage in Monday’s JEP.

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