2016 may be focussed on an event taking place in Brazil but ETU remains determined to promote the participation and development of our junior athletes. With a full programme of Junior European Cups around the region and with the added bonus of an “end of year” reward to their federation, the juniors have in the past and will once again be racing at a very competitive level.
We recall that victory in Madrid where the young French athlete, Jeanne Lehair stormed to take gold in her first international race as an Elite athlete. “It is difficult to compare a sprint and a standard race, as difficult in fact as comparing a junior and an elite race. I do not have much experience racing Elite (having only raced on the domestic circuit) but they seem to be more strategic. Sprint races see you trying to make breaks.”
Juniors race flat out and it is always exciting to watch them. They are so determined to do well. Part of you is always wondering, “will this athlete be a future Olympian?” Part of you is always thinking, “what dedication!” All of you is thrilled to see the fast and furious racing.
ETU has increased the prize-fund for the Elite athletes in the ETU Ranking Series. The Juniors also get a bumper pay-out this year with €10,000 being available.
2015 saw the final ranking dominated by Germany. 2014 saw the French take a commanding lead.
2016 kicks off with the race in Portugal with our early season favourite in Quarteira and the last race in 2016 will be the end of season favourite in Alanya.
For the current Junior Ranking Criteria, please click this link
For the current Elite Ranking Criteria (already published), please click this link