PTO US Open Announces Wildcards: Frodeno to Lead Star-Studded Lineup

Why it matters: The four wildcards will enhance the competition at the PTO US Open men's race, bringing a wealth of experience and talent, including a clash of Olympic gold medalists.

Setting the pace: The Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) has announced its four wildcards for the PTO US Open men's race. German triathlon great, Jan Frodeno, ensures a repeat of the PTO European Open clash featuring three Olympic gold medalists since 2008.

What they're saying: "I hope [my recent win] will lead to bigger opportunities down the road," said Marc Dubrick, an American wildcard entry who recently won the Escape From Alcatraz race.

By the numbers:

• Frodeno recently reached #19 in the PTO World Rankings.
• Marten Van Riel, a Belgian wildcard, was within 30 seconds of an Olympic medal in Tokyo.
• The prize fund for the PTO Opens in 2023 is $600,000 per event, with $100,000 for the winner.

Between the transition: Timothy O’Donnell, a PTO Athlete Board member who recovered from a serious health scare, will also participate as a wildcard. The remaining wildcards for the women’s race are to be confirmed.

Through Time: The PTO US Open is now being staged alongside USA Triathlon’s National Championships, making it a big weekend for triathlon racing in the US, with over 7,000 participants and 20,000 spectators expected to attend.

The bottom line: These wildcard selections are set to provide intense competition at the PTO US Open men's race.