AL-HADDADIN READY FOR YOUTH OLYMPIC TRIATHLON CHALLENGE

Jordanian Triathlete Maria Al-Haddadin will be facing some of the world’s best young athletes when she competes at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games on November 6.
The teenager will compete in the women’s Triathlon at the fourth edition of the Games, which takes place in Senegal from October 31-November 13.
Al-Haddadin earned her place at the Youth Olympics following her participation in last year’s Asian Youth Games in Bahrain and is now looking to build on that experience on the global stage.
Under the guidance of national team coach, Elias Nawara, she has been following an intensive training programme designed to improve her physical fitness, endurance and technical abilities across the three disciplines of triathlon – swimming, cycling and running.
Particular attention has also been given to improving her transitions between the different stages of the race, an important factor in competitive Triathlon.
Nawara expressed confidence in Al-Haddadin’s preparations and believes the Games will provide a valuable opportunity for her continued development.
“Over recent months, we have focused on developing Maria’s physical and technical abilities across swimming, cycling and running, while improving her endurance and ability to manage the demands of competition,” he said.
“We hope she will make the most of this important opportunity in her sporting career, particularly as she will be competing against some of the world's leading young female triathletes.”
Al-Haddadin will face a demanding race comprising three consecutive stages, beginning with a 750m open-water swim. She will then complete a 20km cycling course before finishing with a 5km run.
Her participation represents another important step in the development of Jordanian Triathlon and provides an opportunity to gain valuable international experience ahead of future competitions.
Al-Haddadin is among 13 athletes representing Jordan across eight sports at Dakar 2026, marking the Kingdom’s most diverse participation in Youth Olympic Games history.