Ian Pennekamp reportedly finished fourth in the World Series event in Abu Dhabi, his best result at the highest level. In the sprint triathlon, consisting of 750 metres of swimming, 20 kilometres of cycling and 5 kilometres of running, the field had already split during the swim. An eleven-man leading group formed on the cycling course and included Pennekamp and Mitch Kolkman, who finished ninth.

Matthew Hauser began the run in front, but Miguel Hidalgo soon joined him. The Brazilian then pulled clear over the final 2.5 kilometres. Pennekamp won the sprint for fourth place from the group behind, finishing 52 seconds after Hidalgo.