Insurance company BF&M was named yesterday as a main sponsor for the ITU World Triathlon Bermuda.

The island is one of eight countries on the global circuit of the ITU World Triathlon Series and the event will be hosted in Hamilton in April.

Phil Schmidt, World Triathlon Bermuda organising committee chairman, said: “World Triathlon Bermuda welcomes this partnership with a leading Bermuda health insurer, as our sport encourages healthy living.”

Pat Phillip-Fairn, Bermuda Tourism Authority chief product and experience development officer, added: “We appreciate BF&M recognising the opportunity this premier event brings for Bermuda in our growing sports tourism calendar.”

The event will take place on April 28 and residents are being encouraged to celebrate Bermuda and to support eight-times world champion triathlete Flora Duffy.

John Wight, BF&M president and chief executive officer, said: “Having the opportunity to celebrate Flora’s achievements and to support her in a World Triathlon Series event right here at home is incredibly exciting.

He added: “As a leading health insurance provider, supporting an athletic event of this calibre is a perfect fit for BF&M.

“If even one young person is inspired to get fit, after watching these world-class athletes — perhaps even to take up the sport seriously — then our sponsorship will have been worth it.

“A lifetime of medical expenses for one person can far exceed the cost of this sponsorship, so inspiring the community to exercise is a priority.

“In addition, as a 115-year-old Bermudian business, we are deeply vested in seeing Bermuda succeed as a premier tourist destination and in stimulating the local economy.”

The elite race that Ms Duffy will compete in, and the age group amateur race that will attract hundreds of runners, will be the focus of racing.

Athletes will line up for a swim start at Number 1 Car Park, where there will be free public viewing areas and a VIP section.

The elite race will then transition to bikes and the run will take place in front of spectators on Front Street.

Hundreds of people are expected to take part in the amateur event, including locals trying their first triathlon.

Organisers welcome sportspeople of other disciplines to register and train for the April event, which does not require a qualifying time.

Organisers are also recruiting up to 700 volunteers.

• Residents can register their interest online at www.tribermuda.com/volunteer.