Triathletes alert to shark threat

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Organisers of Sydney's first elite triathlon since the 2000 Olympics are safeguarding athletes by fitting shark-repelling devices to boats before the world championship series opens tomorrow.

The devices have been fitted to ease any fears of competitors before they dive into Sydney harbour for the 1.5km swim leg.

Sharks have been sighted off Sydney's eastern suburbs beaches, convincing organisers to utilise technology which emit

a three-dimensional electrical wave to deter the mammals.

Engine noise from boats following the swimmers is also expected to keep any sharks at bay while a helicopter crew filming the event will also monitor the situation.

Australia's world champion Emma Moffatt admitted she had thought about sharks in the lead-up to the race but had no concerns racing in the Harbour.

"It's a little scary but you just block these things out," she said.

New Zealand has 15 competitors headed by two-time Olympic medallist Bevan Docherty and women's world No 3 Andrea Hewitt.

- NZPA