UIPM readies their next obstacle discipline test with a twist

As the Union Internationale de Pentathlon Moderne (UIPM) prepares for their third test of obstacle as the new fifth discipline, the event in Italy will have a much younger feel to it.

The UIPM said the new event will be held on a beach in Lignano Sabbiadoro Sept. 9-10, and will be held in conjunction with the UIPM 2022 Youth World Championships (U19/U17) from Sept. 4-11.

Yasser Hefny the UIPM Athletes Committee Chair said, “I believe athletes aged 19 and under are the most important audience for the new pentathlon discipline process. This is the generation most likely to be competing for medals in 2028 and beyond.”

Whether those athletes will be competing for Olympic medals remains to be seen, as modern pentathlon is currently not on the LA28 Olympic Program. Regardless, those invited to Italy are ready for the challenge.

“Testing the new sport will be an exciting experience that I will treasure,” said Annachiara Allara. “I’m really looking forward to it and thrilled at the idea of climbing and twirling like an acrobat.”

Previous obstacle test events took place in Hungary and Turkey over the summer, but the Italian version will be tailored for youth athletes, and will also take place on the beach for the first time. The UIPM Youth World Championships usually attract close to 300 athletes from about 30 countries, so it promises to be an eye-opening adventure for all involved.

“Obstacle racing is spectacular and it will certainly be well accepted and popular among the youngsters,” said Italian Modern Pentathlon Federation President Fabrizio Bittner. “I believe our sport must become a protagonist of change and be an ambassador for a new sport and exercise culture.”

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