2012 Abu Dhabi International Triathlon

Rasmus Henning and Nikki Butterfield set race records. Andrew Starykowicz went race record fast on the bike but an errant aid station volunteer ran into his path on the bike and ended his day. Clayton Fettell and Jodie Swallow led the swim but faded a bit near the end of the day. Leanda Cave was felled by a bug and could not start. Caroline Steffen said how could she be disappointed with third place when she had a perfect day? The Abu Dhabi International Triathlon was held for the third time in this dazzling capital of the United Arab Emirates and a good time was had by almost everyone.

All photographs © Timothy Carlson

Riding through the surrealistically modern Formula 1 track at Yas Marina.

Defending champion Frederik Van Lierde of Belgium managed 5th this year.

Johann Ackermann and Niclas Bock shake hands before the swim.

Caroline Steffen's eyes were wide open, totally in focus on the task ahead.

The men's swim start

Clayton Fettell of Australia had fastest swim.

Michele Bremer of New Zealand took 11th.

Jodie Swallow refuels on the go during the bike leg on her way to 6th place.

Riding through the futuristic hotel on the Yas Marina course.

Leon Griffin rides the Yas Marina autodrome on his way to 18th place

Jodie Swallow.

Rachel Joyce fastens her chin strap for the ride., But she really shone with a race-best women's run of 1:11 on her way to 5th place.

Faris Al-Sultan led after T2 to the 15k mark of the run where he was passed by Rasmus Henning.

Eneko Llanos and Rasmus Henning dueled at the start of the run. At the end, Henning was 1st, Llanos 3rd.

A vanquished competitor rests by the side of the run.

Caroline Steffen at full speed running past ther mosque at the run turnaround.

Melissa Rollison ran as well as she could but a turned ankle three weeks before the race left her 4th at the finish.

Andrew Starykowicz crashed when an aid station volunteer stepped in front of his bike. He still set race record for the bike but had to withdraw before the run.

Rasmus Henning won and set a race record.

Nikki Butterfield shared the spotlight of her first major triathlon win with her young daughter Savana.