UIPM Development Spotlight: energy and expansion define start of 2025 season
With a new sports pyramid now fully embedded in the movement, giving organisers more flexibility to host multisport combinations, the 2025 season of UIPM development competitions launched with dynamic and record-breaking participation.
With more than 30 Global Laser Run City Tour (GLRCT) events and six Biathle/Triathle World Tour (BTWT) stops planned, alongside the inaugural joint UIPM World Championships for Biathle/Triathle and Laser Run, the new season marks a pivotal step forward in growing Modern Pentathlon worldwide.
UIPM Development Director Maxime Papillon said: “2025 will be the first year of Biathle/Triathle and Laser Run being organised jointly at World Championship level. Depending on the success of this venture, this could create a new economic model for UIPM development competitions in the future.
“As always, the goal is to count on more active nations. This goal can be achieved with different tools such as the UIPM Global Laser Run City Tour and the UIPM Biathle/Triathle World Tour and judging by the organising countries in 2025, our Member Federations have understood the opportunity well.
“Finally, with the addition of Obstacle, UIPM will be able to be part of more events with the discipline as standalone but also with Obstacle Laser Run, which will be featured in University and Military Pentathlon and at the SEA Games at the end of 2025. The format will also have its first own World Championships in 2026.”
Here are some short Tour summaries from the early part of 2025, illustrating the breadth and range of competitions now taking place in all corners of the global movement.
Cairo, Egypt
February 8
Egypt once again kicked off the season with the first GLRCT at Cairo International Stadium. More than 350 athletes from 27 clubs competed, ranging in age from Under 9 to 60+, continuing Egypt’s proud tradition of hosting vibrant UIPM events. Cairo (EGY) remains a launchpad for future stars, with GLRCTs here often serving as qualifiers for World Championships.
Tbilisi, Georgia
March 30
The Georgian capital welcomed around 80 athletes to Digomi Olympic City for the 2025 season-opener. Standout youth performances included Tako Abramishvili and Nutsi Gabadze, while established names like David Donadze and Marta Tchapodze added pedigree. Young athlete Nikoloz Sutidze said: “This was a great way to start the season. I can’t wait for the next events!”
Beirut, Lebanon
April 6
A historic first for Lebanon, the GLRCT at Beirut Waterfront attracted 170 participants across all age groups. Having received a delivery of laser pistols in the days before the event, organisers delivered a successful and well-attended debut. “This event helped introduce new athletes to the sport and strengthened our connection with the global community,” organisers noted.
Alexandria, Egypt
April 12
Smouha Sporting Club hosted Egypt’s second GLRCT of the year, drawing more than 400 athletes. The resort city of Alexandria, which has hosted multiple international competitions at various levels, welcomed para-athletes alongside the able-bodied contingent. The event demonstrated the inclusivity and infrastructure leadership that Egypt brings to UIPM development.
Zhytomyr, Ukraine
April 26-27
Over 250 athletes gathered at Shoduarivsky Park for one of Ukraine’s biggest multisport festivals. National athletes Iryna Kubrak and Gordiy Bereznyakov led the adult categories. Vice President of the Ukrainian Modern Pentathlon Federation Oleksii Shablyi said: “Laser Run is open to everyone, regardless of age or level. With UIPM’s support, the sport is flourishing in Ukraine.”
Bamako, Mali
April 30
Though not an official GLRCT, the Maarif School Laser Run Challenge welcomed over 160 school-aged participants. Organised by the Malian Federation and local schools, it marked an important milestone in grassroots development in West Africa.
Šiauliai, Lithuania
May 3
Šiauliai gathered 230 athletes from across Lithuania and Latvia, highlighting the growing appeal of Laser Run in the Baltic region. Among the standout performers was renowned track and field athlete Justinas Beržanskis, who claimed victory in the men’s category and praised the dynamic format. In the women’s race, former modern pentathlete and current coach Vilma Jašinskė took the top spot. A strong turnout in the 40+ age group added to the lively atmosphere, with many participants eager to know when they can compete again.
Gori, Georgia
May 25
The second GLRCT in Georgia was held in Gori with 109 athletes. Twin sisters Tamar and Mariam Kirtadze made a strong debut by finishing 1st and 3rd respectively. Regional President Marika Kakhiashvili said: “Having this number of participants – significantly more than last year – is a big achievement and shows the growing interest in Laser Run.”
Riga, Latvia
May 25
The GLRCT in Riga brought 66 athletes from five countries to the historic Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon Sports Centre, active since 1975. The event featured categories from U9 to Masters 50+ and coincided with a local equestrian competition, creating a nostalgic and heartfelt atmosphere for the pentathlon community. For the first time in Latvia, an Obstacle Race demo was showcased, drawing strong interest. Despite late inclusion in the GLRCT calendar, the event received national TV and media coverage, and many athletes expressed a desire to return next year.
Aragua, Venezuela
May 31
Aragua welcomed 187 participants across all age groups, reflecting the strong momentum of Laser Run development in Venezuela. Organised with enthusiasm and community spirit, the event provided a valuable platform for talent identification and public engagement. Local organisers expressed deep appreciation to UIPM for the opportunity, highlighting how initiatives like the GLRCT are raising awareness and expanding the reach of Modern Pentathlon across the country.
Kyiv, Ukraine
June 1
Kyiv hosted its 2025 GLRCT at the scenic Water Sports Base on Zhukiv Island, bringing together over 300 athletes from across Ukraine for a festive day of sport and community. Organised by the Ukrainian Modern Pentathlon Federation in partnership with youth sports club “Brigantina,” the event featured both individual and mixed relay races, with participants ranging from young newcomers to experienced Masters athletes. Vice President Oleksii Shablii expressed gratitude to UIPM, stating: “This is more than just a competition: it’s a platform to unite people, create opportunities for youth development, and promote a healthy lifestyle.” The Kyiv stage stood out for its inclusivity and vibrant atmosphere, making it a true celebration of Laser Run and active living.
Looking ahead
The 2025 calendar introduces several milestones, including the inaugural joint World Championships for Biathle/Triathle and Laser Run in Mossel Bay (South Africa), and the second combined European Championships for both disciplines in Antalya (Turkey). Asia remains a stronghold of development activity, with the annual Biathle/Triathle Asian Championships returning to Būrabay (Kazakhstan) and more landmark GLRCTs planned across the continent, including a much-anticipated comeback event in Singapore.
New hosts like Lebanon are joining the family, while Egypt and Georgia continue to lead the way in providing multiple competitive opportunities as they have for many years. With new-look events featuring Obstacle in different combinations gaining traction, the UIPM development pathway continues to evolve and expand.
Stay tuned for more updates from UIPM’s global network of development competitions.
