Hong Kong triathlete returns to action but set to withdraw during World Cup race in China

Robin Elg will have to bury his competitive spirit on Saturday when he withdraws from the World Triathlon Cup leg in Haikou after the swim and bike legs.

Returning to competition following a stress reaction in his shin, Elg is set to compete for the first time since November’s National Games, where he was part of the city squad’s mixed relay silver medal quartet.

But Andrew Wright, the head coach, is loath to rush an athlete who is expected to vie for honours at this year’s Asian Games, so Elg will quit the Hainan Island race before the competitors embark on their 5km run.

“Pulling out of a race is a very hard thing to do; I think I’m going to have to be there to make sure he doesn’t run, especially if he’s in a good position,” said Wright, who acknowledged it was a unique set of circumstances that had persuaded him to allow Elg to start.

“He’s not had much university, and has just been training for very long periods since the National Games; being part of the team and at an event will give him a lot of motivation,” Wright said.

“Standing on the start line and producing a good swim-bike will add to his confidence, and I think this is the right call.”