Olympic Games

Venues-Triathlon

Changping Triathlon venue

Last Updated: Friday, June 6, 2008 | 2:29 PM ET

Bernice Chan CBC Sports

The Beijing BG Triathlon World Cup, one of Beijing Olympic test events, in Beijing Sunday, Sept. 16, 2007. (AP Photo/ITU, Frank Wechsel, HO)

During the Ming Dynasty, the third emperor Yongle moved the Chinese capital from Nanjing to Beijing. The Ming tombs are located near the southern slope of Mount Taishou. He is also credited with laying out the city, putting the Forbidden City in the centre.

He also chose the burial site, which is 50km northwest of Beijing. The 13 successive emperors after him were buried here. The path leading towards their tombs is flanked by stone animals, depicting real and mythical creatures.

The area was chosen for its good feng shui (luck), which is why athletes competing in the triathlon may hope good luck will also come their way when they come to the Changping Triathlon venue near the tombs.

Nevertheless, triathlon competitors will have a picturesque natural setting to do their 1.5km swim, 40km bike race and 10km run. The venue has also been described as “the most environmentally friendly triathlon venue in the world” by the International Triathlon Union.

The reason for this pronouncement might be because the venue is temporary and after it’s dismantled, the allocation of the used materials has already been planned out.

The reservoir has also had much experience with triathlons, having hosted the 2005 and 2006 triathlon World Cup competitions.

For the first part of the race, spectators will enjoy watching the swimming event, which takes place right in the Ming Tomb Reservoir, where a pagoda stands nearby with the backdrop of the mountains.

After the swim, competitors mount their bikes and ride along the right bank of the Dongsha River Road, a scenic route that will take six laps to complete.

Finally, the 10km run will be completed in four laps. For the first time, instead of running on the road, a rubber running track made from used tires will be used in this competition. After the Games, the track will be installed in Changping District’s elementary, middle and high schools.

The venue includes spectator stands for 10,000 and big screens will be set up so fans can get close-ups of all the action. There is also media seating and a VIP lounge, as well as facilities and function rooms for press conferences, logistics and security purposes.