UIPM Development Tours Spotlight: Vitality and strength on display at Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run events worldwide

During an action-packed summer and autumn busy with competitions there were around 30 Biathle-Triathle and Laser Run events including GLRCT, BTNT, as well as continental biathle, triathle and laser-run competitions, all of which showcased the dynamic spirit and robust strength of Modern Pentathlon across the globe.

 

Biathle Triathle National Tours

Chisinau (MDA): June 29-30

For the third year in a row the capital of Moldova hosted a BTNT with over 150 participants in this event held over two days. The event has become a good summertime tradition, where most of the participants are kids enjoying school vacation. Winners were awarded diplomas, medals and cash prizes. The President of the National Federation Alexei Vasilianov expressed his gratitude to Chisinau Municipality for supporting the event and promoting Modern Pentathlon.

Participant and 2023 Open European Masters Champion Nicolai Omelianov said: “These competitions have been a source of many positive emotions and inspiration for me. I am sincerely glad that the spirit of sportsmanship and the pursuit of excellence unite us all, regardless of age and experience.”

 

Villaviciosa (ESP): August 31-Sept 1

The picturesque town of Villaviciosa, nestled in the autonomous community of Asturias in northern Spain, recently hosted a vibrant tour that brought together 150 participants. Known as the birthplace of renowned musician José Ángel Hevia Velasco, Villaviciosa is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. The town provided an ideal setting for athletes to enjoy nature while engaging in their activities.

Marsa Matrouh (EGY): Sept 6-7

Bringing together around 500 participants from all age groups, ranging from Under-9 children to Masters 60+ athletes, this vibrant event took place in the picturesque resort town of Marsa Matruh on Egypt’s Mediterranean coast.

Renowned for its stunning lagoons, pristine white-sand beaches, the Porto Marina Resort venue offered a seamless blend of comfort for athletes and efficient logistics for organisers. Once again, the Egyptian Modern Pentathlon Federation (EMPF) showcased its unwavering commitment to fostering UIPM development sports across the nation.

Gijon (ESP): Sept 7-8

For the second consecutive year, the coastal city of Gijón in northern Spain hosted a BTNT, attracting 170 athletes to compete amidst its rich maritime heritage and the historic charm of the Cimadevilla fisherman’s quarter. Earlier in the year, Gijón successfully hosted the UIPM Global Laser Run City Tour (GLRCT), further cementing its reputation as a hub for UIPM sports. The event highlighted the city’s seamless blend of sports, history, and coastal beauty, offering athletes an unforgettable competitive experience.

 

Global Laser Run City Tours

Tashkent (UZB): July 14

This event brought together 550 participants, including 300 adults and 250 children, in a celebration of athleticism and community. Laser Run competitions not only showcased exceptional individual talent but also underscored Uzbekistan’s rapidly growing passion for Modern Pentathlon. The event’s flawless execution, adhering to stringent UIPM standards, demonstrated Tashkent’s readiness and capability to host world-class sporting spectacles. “By setting a new benchmark for innovative sports competitions in Central Asia, GLRCT in Tashkent solidified Uzbekistan’s reputation as a key player in the global Modern Pentathlon landscape,” a local organiser said.

 

Tbilisi (GEO): July 20

Tbilisi, the vibrant capital of Georgia, proudly hosted the GLRCT once again, continuing a tradition that began in 2017. This year’s event brought together nearly 100 athletes, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for Laser Run in the region.

Event organizer Natia Matchavariani said: “We are thrilled to see so many young athletes embracing the Laser Run. This highlights the sport’s growth and its ability to inspire the next generation.”

The Georgian Modern Pentathlon and Triathlon National Federation (GMPTF) expressed heartfelt thanks to all athletes, families, and supporters whose energy and enthusiasm made the event a resounding success.

Kokshetau (KAZ): Aug 21-24

Kokshetau, the picturesque lakeside city in northern Kazakhstan and the capital of the Akmola Region, hosted an exhilarating Laser Run competition that attracted around 200 athletes. The event underscored the city’s rich tradition of nurturing Modern Pentathlon sub-sports. Kokshetau has earned a reputation as a “forge of champions,” with local athletes consistently achieving international success, earning 20–25 medals annually in Biathle and Triathle.

Leonid Zimarev, Acting President of the Kazakhstan Modern Pentathlon Federation, said: “Kokshetau has long been a center for Biathle, Triathle, and Laser Run in Kazakhstan. It’s inspiring to see athletes of all ages and skill levels competing with such passion. Events like this are essential for growing our sport and engaging the next generation of athletes.”

 

Chirchik (UZB): Sept 21

From Tashkent to Chirchik, the triumph of Laser Run continues to shine in Uzbekistan. This groundbreaking competition brought together over 550 participants, showcasing the growing enthusiasm for this dynamic sport. Chirchik’s Eco Park provided an ideal setting, blending athleticism with camaraderie in a picturesque and welcoming environment.

Flawless organisation and a strict adherence to UIPM standards highlighted the Federation of Modern Pentathlon of Uzbekistan’s dedication to delivering world-class sporting experiences. Beyond the competition, the Laser Run in Chirchik celebrated the values of physical fitness, strategic thinking and community spirit.

Ungheni (MDA): Sept 22

The town of Ungheni, situated on the eastern bank of the Prut River across from its namesake village in Romania, shares a rich historical connection as the two once formed a single township. This annual event has become a cherished autumn tradition, attracting a growing number of participants, particularly young athletes.

This year, over 300 participants took part in the competition, reflecting its rising popularity and importance in the region. The event was organized as part of a larger Sports Festival, which added to its festive atmosphere and prominence. The occasion was further highlighted by the attendance of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova, underscoring the significance of sports in fostering community and national pride.

 

Chisinau (MDA): Sept 28

Following the successful Laser Run event in Ungheni, another remarkable competition took place in Chişinău, the capital of Moldova, bringing together around 200 athletes of various ages. The event showcased the growing popularity of Laser Run in the country, providing an excellent platform for athletes to demonstrate their skills and passion for the sport. With participants ranging from young enthusiasts to seasoned competitors, the tour reflected the inclusive and dynamic spirit of UIPM sports.

 

Continental Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run

European Biathle, Triathle and Laser Run, Funchal (POR): July 1-7

Over 700 athletes from 20 nations descended upon the picturesque island, known as the Pearl of the Atlantic, to compete in these thrilling events. The President of the Portuguese Modern Pentathlon Federation, Dr. João Paulo Almeida, emphasized the success of the event, stating, “These 2024 Biathle & Triathle & Laser-Run European Championships held in Funchal have shown that our sport Modern Pentathlon has a remarkable vitality and overall strength. Athletes from 7 to 70 years old won and achieved true happiness in Madeira. Portugal has confirmed once more its leadership hosting on a high organizational level major international competitions.”

Funchal (POR) was duly rewarded with hosting the UIPM 2026 Biathle-Triathle and Laser Run World Championships after a decision at UIPM Congress in November.

 

Open Biathle/Triathle Asian Championships, Būrabay (KAZ): June 27-30

For the past six years, the Asian Biathle and Triathle Championships have been held on Kazakhstani soil, establishing a tradition of high-level competition and sportsmanship. This year the event took place in one of Kazakhstan’s most picturesque locations, the resort area of Būrabay in the Akmola region.

The championships spanned four days, each dedicated to different segments of the competitions. This year, about 250 athletes of all ages, ranging from 9 years to the Seniors category, participated in the championships. These young athletes hailed from several Asian countries, including Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, the United Arab Emirates, and the host nation, Kazakhstan.

Yuriy Solovyev, the main organizer and head of Biathle and Triathle in Kazakhstan, emphasized: “The events were meticulously organized in accordance with all UIPM rules and regulations, ensuring safety and fairness throughout the competitions. Representatives from various delegations praised the high level of organization and the flawless execution by the judging team.”

As the competition season concluded, the spirit of competition, respect, and international friendship shone brightly. These competitions were more than just a series of races; they were a celebration of athleticism, camaraderie, and international friendship.

Both events not only provided a platform for athletes to showcase their talents but also fostered a sense of unity and mutual respect among participants from different nations. Looking forward to more development competitions in 2025.

If you would like to host GLRCT or BTNT in 2025 please contact UIPM Development Director Maxime Papillon at maxime.papillon@pentathlon.org