The Hong Kong Triathlon Association has organised a series of clinics to promote the sport among the public, including students, in preparation for a popular competition next month. The annual Hong Kong ITU Triathlon Premium Asian Cup - the city's biggest triathlon event - will be held on October 17 and 18 at Hong Kong Disneyland and Sunny Bay. The competition, which has attracted top local as well as overseas talent, comprises several categories designed for beginners. The UltraKids category is divided into age groups, including for children born after 1994 and after 1998. The race is harder for the former category. A school section has been included to encourage more students to take up the sport. Hong Kong's No1 triathlete, Daniel Lee Chi-wo, will participate. 'This is the largest [triathlon] competition in town. I've taken part in it since I took up the sport more than 10 years ago. It has a special meaning for me,' he said. The association said they would like to promote the sport in schools and in the community. With this in mind, they have organised clinics on four consecutive Saturdays. The first session was held last Saturday. At the first clinic, the association's coaches talked about the gear and preparation for a competition. Lee also shared his experiences with the students. 'Everyone knows how to run. Many people know how to swim and ride a bicycle as well. But triathlon, which combines the three, can be a big challenge to them,' he said. Lee said cycling was the most difficult part for him at the beginning. He was a swimmer but he liked new challenges, so he enrolled in a triathlon competition. Today, he's the most famous triathlete in Hong Kong. Lee offered some valuable advice for aspiring triathletes. 'Riding a bicycle in a competition is different from riding a bike for recreation. It's better to practise before the competition,' he said. 'Also, I advise beginners to come up with their own training schedule. They can practise the three sports on separate days. But closer to the competition, they should practise swimming, cycling and running together. It's good to try out the competition venue beforehand as well.' Brian Lai Kit-ting, 17, cross-country team captain at Diocesan Boys' School, attended last Saturday's clinic. 'I'd like to challenge myself and test my limits. That's why I joined this competition,' he said. Kit-ting said he's honing his swimming and cycling skills. 'I might start with the relay event this year. If I can handle it, I'd like to go for the Olympic distance in the individual event next year,' he said. The deadline for applications is Sunday. For more information, visit www.hongkongitu.com