August 20–23: nearly 200 athletes from 30 countries to compete in Lithuania
From 20–23 August, the spa town of Druskininkai, Lithuania, will become the center of the modern pentathlon world as it hosts the UIPM U19 World Championships. On 21 August, history will be made with the launch of the first-ever UIPM Para Tetrathlon World Championships, held in the same venue.
The event has attracted almost 200 young athletes from 30 nations, who will battle for world titles over four days of competition. Women’s qualification opens the schedule on 20 August, followed by men’s qualification and the Para Tetrathlon on 21 August. The women’s U19 World Champion will be crowned on 22 August, while the men’s final takes place on 23 August.
A Historic First: Para Tetrathlon World Championships
The inaugural Para Tetrathlon World Championships will feature athletes from the PMP4 and PMP5 classifications, who will compete in three disciplines: swimming, obstacle, and the combined running and laser shooting event (Laser Run). All competitions will take place at the modern Lithuanian Sports Center in Druskininkai, equipped with an indoor swimming pool and a purpose-built obstacle course.
UIPM Para Pentathlon Commission Chair Dr. Nicola Robinson said:
“The first Para Tetrathlon World Championships mark an important step in the history of our sport. It provides athletes with disabilities greater opportunities to compete at the highest level and inspires our entire community. We are grateful to Lithuania and the local organizing committee for their vision and determination in hosting this landmark event alongside the U19 World Championships.”
Strong International Field
The U19 World Championships bring together some of the brightest young talents in modern pentathlon, many of whom have already won medals on the international stage. Alongside experienced competitors, numerous debutants will make their first appearance at this level, offering a glimpse of the sport’s next generation.
Spotlight on Contenders
- Women’s favorite:
Farida Khalil (Egypt) enters as the undisputed favorite. Since November 2023, she has reached the podium in all 15 individual UIPM finals, claiming eight golds, four silvers, and three bronzes. At just 14, she is the reigning U17, U19, and Junior World Champion, with an Olympic‑level talent rare for her age. - Men’s top contenders:
The field remains wide open, but two key athletes stand out:
- Taegyung Lim (South Korea), last year’s U19 champion, stunned the world by setting a new overall world record in Druskininkai. Though he has been absent from competition for a year, this event marks his return—and a chance to repeat his lightning performance Wikipedia+7uipmworld.org+7uipmworld.org+7.
- Nemere Szecsi (Hungary), newly crowned U17 World Champion, arrives with high momentum and will challenge for gold
- Taegyung Lim (South Korea), last year’s U19 champion, stunned the world by setting a new overall world record in Druskininkai. Though he has been absent from competition for a year, this event marks his return—and a chance to repeat his lightning performance Wikipedia+7uipmworld.org+7uipmworld.org+7.
“Hosting these championships is a unique opportunity to showcase modern pentathlon as an innovative and inclusive sport. Young athletes will fight for world titles, and the Para Tetrathlon will undoubtedly become a historic milestone,” said Aistis Baronas, President of the Lithuanian Modern Pentathlon Federation.