The feeling of exhilaration during a race has Tauranga teenager Kirsty Burrows sprinting after a world title in triathlon.

The 17-year-old has been selected to represent New Zealand at the Triathlon Age Group World Championships in Canada this month.

Kirsty Burrows.

She leaves New Zealand tomorrow and will stay in Canada for two weeks competing in the world championships and 16-19 age group in Aquathlon – a two-stage race involving swimming and running.

Kirsty's been competing in triathlon for as long as she can remember, but it wasn't until she started college four years ago the keen-athlete got competitive.

'I've always loved the school-related competitions and IronKids [triathlon series].

'I love competing. The zone you're in when you race is always exciting and exhilarating – and the personal satisfaction of improving and accomplishing a high standard.”

Competing internationally is nothing new to the teenager, having represented NZ in the same world championships in London last year, placing 17^th in her age group.

But Canada will prove a new experience for Kirsty.

'I've never been to Canada before, so it will definitely be exciting. I've travelled overseas before and it's always a great experience, so I'm really looking forward to it.

'I'm very nervous, but more excited than anything else.”

Kirsty's father Paul is also travelling to Canada with his daughter for the event. He will compete in the 50-plus age group.