Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
30 March 2008.
Mooloolaba turned on a perfect day for the first ITU BG World Cup Triathlon of 2008, a race that doubled as the final Olympic trial for New Zealand athletes looking to grab the third and final place on the men's and women's team for Beijing in August.
In both cases today was billed as a match race between Shane Reed and Terenzo Bozzone in the men and Andrea Hewitt and Nicky Samuels in the women's and that is how it panned out in the 30 degree heat on the Sunshine Coast.
The selection criteria has been known for a long time with athletes looking to join those already qualified for Beijing targeting the Mooloolaba race for months and knowing exactly what was required of them to earn nomination to the New Zealand Olympic Committee for Beijing.
Hewitt gained the edge in the women's race (see earlier release) but failed to make the top five and book a spot in Beijing.
In the men's race it was a similar story as Terenzo Bozzone finished ahead of Shane Reed but in 14th position and like the women, the decision as to who will join Bevan Docherty and Kris Gemmell in Beijing is now in the hands of the selectors.
Docherty was best of the Kiwis despite having what he described as a bad day at the office, in particular in the swim when he was 56th out of the water. In typical fashion though he was soon at the head of the field on the bike and ran steadily if not spectacularly for fourth.
The real interest though lay in the battle between Bozzone and Reed and the contrast between the two athletes. Bozzone is 23 and at the start of what promises to be a stunning career while Reed is 34 and winding his down but clearly in the form of his life.
Bozzone said he just didn't have it in him to stay with the leaders on the run after finishing the swim in third and exiting the bike in sixth place.
"If things had gone well I would love to have been top five but second Kiwi behind Bevan, I am happy. I got a little carried away at the start of the run, there were a lot of guys that faded due to the pace, I think this is something that I will have to learn, how to stay with the leaders early in the run and maintain that pace."
The North Shore athlete wasn't caught up in the talk of extra pressure given the head to head battle with Reed.
"The pressure here was no more than it will be at the Olympics, this was just another race, I just had to handle the pressure, do what I do and execute it perfectly."
Reed did not have a great day, suffering from a fall on the bike when Javier Gomez ran over his back.
"I just didn't feel great today and then to have the fall on the bike and Javier basically ride over my back fazed me a little I guess. It didn't have a huge bearing, I just felt flat today, maybe the pressure of selection played a part but sometimes you just have those days."
The race was won by World Number One Javier Gomez (Spain) from Australian Brad Hahlefeldt (Australia) and Tim Don (UK).
Subject then to all boxes being ticked and criteria being met by the athletes concerned, the Tri NZ Selectors and the NZOC will announce the successful athletes (and reserves) at the World Tri Festival in New Plymouth this coming weekend.
The festival included a number or events with New Zealanders taking part in many, including the Aria Open Elite standard distance race completed earlier this morning. Best of the Kiwis was Carmel Hanley (Auckland) and Dylan McNeice (Christchurch), both of whom picked up prize money for fourth place finishes.
Mooloolaba ITU BG World Cup, Elite Men results, 30 March 2008
1 J. GOMEZ (ESP) 1:49:50
2 B. KAHLEFELDT (AUS) + 0:24
3 T. DON (GBR) + 0:34
4 B. DOCHERTY (NZL) + 0:37
5 G. BENNETT (AUS) + 0:39
6 O. FREEMAN (GBR) + 0:44
7 P. TICHELAAR (CAN) + 0:48
8 B. SEXTON (AUS) + 0:55
9 S. THOMPSON (AUS) + 1:03
10 K. JONES (CAN) + 1:08
11 M. PETZOLD (GER) + 1:18
12 S. HAYES (GBR) + 1:24
13 T. MOULAI (FRA) + 1:32
14 T. BOZZONE (NZL) + 1:33
15 B. PAIS (POR) + 1:34
16 H. DE VILLIERS (RSA) + 1:34
17 M. FRETTA (USA) + 1:41
18 O. MARCEAU (SUI) + 1:42
19 D. GAAG (KAZ) + 1:43
20 M. HUERTA (USA) + 1:46
21 Y. MALYSHEV (RUS) + 1:51
22 P. CROES (BEL) + 1:56
23 R. STANNARD (GBR) + 1:59
24 C. ATKINSON (AUS) + 2:06
25 S. REED (NZL) + 2:22
26 R. YAMAMOTO (JPN) + 2:23
27 S. BERK (NED) + 2:25
28 M. HOPPER (AUS) + 2:28
29 R. ALTERMAN (ISR) + 2:30
30 D. FONTANA (ITA) + 2:41
31 J. HAST (FIN) + 2:49
32 D. POLYANSKY (RUS) + 2:53
33 C. ELLICE (NZL) + 2:56
34 H. NISHIUCHI (JPN) + 2:57
35 V. TURBAEVSKIY (RUS) + 3:01
36 R. WILD (SUI) + 3:03
37 E. D'AQUINO (ITA) + 3:04
38 L. SAUCEDO (MEX) + 3:05
39 A. GARZA (MEX) + 3:13
40 C. KUTTOR (HUN) + 3:17
41 P. ROBERTSON (AUS) + 3:23
42 W. CLARKE (GBR) + 3:26
43 A. BROWNLEE (GBR) + 3:35
44 E. WOLFAARDT (RSA) + 3:40
45 H. BANTI (MON) + 3:49
46 A. ZEEBROEK (BEL) + 3:56
47 D. BROCARD (SUI) + 4:02
48 Y. SEVERIN (NED) + 4:20
49 C. JENKINS (CAN) + 4:21
50 D. BOCKEL (LUX) + 4:35
51 L. VIDAL (FRA) + 4:38
52 J. ELVERY (NZL) + 4:40
53 C. FELGATE (ZIM) + 4:51
54 M. VAN BARNEVELD (NZL) + 5:03
Sunday, 30 March 2008
Hewitt wins the battle of the Kiwis but must wait for Olympic selection news
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
30 March 2008.
Andrea Hewitt won the race of the Kiwis but did not do enough to immediately confirm her nomination for the Beijing Olympics with a 14th place finish at the Mooloolaba ITU BG World Cup today.
If either Hewitt or challenger Nicky Samuels was to earn the third and final spot on the NZ team behind Sam Warriner and Debbie Tanner, they had the hard task of finishing in the top five today, anything less would leave the decision in the hands of the Tri NZ selectors.
Hewitt won the race of the Kiwis by six places and over a minute from Samuels but could not earn the top five finish that would effectively have booked her a ticket to Beijing.
Hewitt was philosophical about that given her form over the past two years.
"Today was just a little too much on the preparation I have been able to do but I did the best I could and was ready to race, just maybe not for the full 10km run distance," said a disappointed but realistic Hewitt.
"It wasn't so much the heat that hurt me it was more the hill, I felt it in the legs and couldn't make up any ground.
"I don't know what is in the selectors thoughts but given Beijing last year and today were considered the two selection races, I think I have done enough to make the Games. I have no doubt about my ability given a smooth preparation, I will have to wait and see what the announcement is in New Plymouth next week."
The selectors will meet tonight in Mooloolaba to begin those discussions before forwarding their nomination to the Tri NZ Board before it is then put to the NZOC to ratify. An announcement is expected at the New Plymouth World Cup next weekend.
The race was won by former World Champion Emma Snowsill, a popular home town win for the huge crowd watching in the hot and humid conditions. Snowsill kept Portugal's Vanessa Fernandes from making history as she chased her 20th World Cup win, something she will no doubt pursue in New Plymouth a week from today.
Another confirmed New Plymouth starter was third in Lisa Norden, the current World U23 Champion from Sweden.
New Zealand world number four Debbie Tanner endured a terrible transition when exiting the swim in touch with the leaders. Her helmet had been moved and a bike shoe had fallen into her gear bag, causing the Beijing bound athlete to have to turn around and go back to transition to find the shoe, costing her valuable time and any chance of staying with the lead group on the bike.
Mooloolaba ITU BG World Cup, Elite Women 30 March 2008
1 E. SNOWSILL (AUS) 2:00:44
2 V. FERNANDES (POR) + 0:39
3 L. NORDEN (SWE) + 1:24
4 L. BENNETT (USA) + 1:54
5 A. WHITCOMBE (GBR) + 2:02
6 O. ZAUSAYLOVA (RUS) + 2:07
7 A. SHARP (AUS) + 2:09
8 J. IDE (JPN) + 2:29
9 E. MOFFATT (AUS) + 2:33
10 A. DITTMER (GER) + 2:50
11 D. RYF (SUI) + 3:08
12 F. ABRAM (AUS) + 3:22
13 H. TUCKER (GBR) + 3:24
14 A. HEWITT (NZL) + 3:36
15 E. DAVIS (IRL) + 3:44
16 L. HÜTTHALER (AUT) + 3:56
17 L. BLATCHFORD (GBR) + 4:09
18 K. LANG (GBR) + 4:24
19 L. MENSINK (NED) + 4:30
20 N. SAMUELS (NZL) + 4:43
21 E. DENSHAM (AUS) + 4:58
22 D. TANNER (NZL) + 5:37
23 A. MURUA (ESP) + 5:38
24 M. CZESNIK (POL) + 5:43
25 M. ELLIS (USA) + 5:47
26 M. RABIE (RSA) + 5:50
27 J. SWALLOW (GBR) + 5:53
28 E. DEDERKO (POL) + 5:59
29 Z. SZABO (HUN) + 6:14
30 Y. LIU (CHN) + 6:18
31 A. MONIZ (POR) + 6:27
32 Z. RODRIGUEZ (ESP) + 6:28
33 P. HIDALGO (ESP) + 6:33
34 S. SCHÜTZ (SUI) + 6:46
35 E. WILLIAMSON (NZL) + 7:13
30 March 2008.
Andrea Hewitt won the race of the Kiwis but did not do enough to immediately confirm her nomination for the Beijing Olympics with a 14th place finish at the Mooloolaba ITU BG World Cup today.
If either Hewitt or challenger Nicky Samuels was to earn the third and final spot on the NZ team behind Sam Warriner and Debbie Tanner, they had the hard task of finishing in the top five today, anything less would leave the decision in the hands of the Tri NZ selectors.
Hewitt won the race of the Kiwis by six places and over a minute from Samuels but could not earn the top five finish that would effectively have booked her a ticket to Beijing.
Hewitt was philosophical about that given her form over the past two years.
"Today was just a little too much on the preparation I have been able to do but I did the best I could and was ready to race, just maybe not for the full 10km run distance," said a disappointed but realistic Hewitt.
"It wasn't so much the heat that hurt me it was more the hill, I felt it in the legs and couldn't make up any ground.
"I don't know what is in the selectors thoughts but given Beijing last year and today were considered the two selection races, I think I have done enough to make the Games. I have no doubt about my ability given a smooth preparation, I will have to wait and see what the announcement is in New Plymouth next week."
The selectors will meet tonight in Mooloolaba to begin those discussions before forwarding their nomination to the Tri NZ Board before it is then put to the NZOC to ratify. An announcement is expected at the New Plymouth World Cup next weekend.
The race was won by former World Champion Emma Snowsill, a popular home town win for the huge crowd watching in the hot and humid conditions. Snowsill kept Portugal's Vanessa Fernandes from making history as she chased her 20th World Cup win, something she will no doubt pursue in New Plymouth a week from today.
Another confirmed New Plymouth starter was third in Lisa Norden, the current World U23 Champion from Sweden.
New Zealand world number four Debbie Tanner endured a terrible transition when exiting the swim in touch with the leaders. Her helmet had been moved and a bike shoe had fallen into her gear bag, causing the Beijing bound athlete to have to turn around and go back to transition to find the shoe, costing her valuable time and any chance of staying with the lead group on the bike.
Mooloolaba ITU BG World Cup, Elite Women 30 March 2008
1 E. SNOWSILL (AUS) 2:00:44
2 V. FERNANDES (POR) + 0:39
3 L. NORDEN (SWE) + 1:24
4 L. BENNETT (USA) + 1:54
5 A. WHITCOMBE (GBR) + 2:02
6 O. ZAUSAYLOVA (RUS) + 2:07
7 A. SHARP (AUS) + 2:09
8 J. IDE (JPN) + 2:29
9 E. MOFFATT (AUS) + 2:33
10 A. DITTMER (GER) + 2:50
11 D. RYF (SUI) + 3:08
12 F. ABRAM (AUS) + 3:22
13 H. TUCKER (GBR) + 3:24
14 A. HEWITT (NZL) + 3:36
15 E. DAVIS (IRL) + 3:44
16 L. HÜTTHALER (AUT) + 3:56
17 L. BLATCHFORD (GBR) + 4:09
18 K. LANG (GBR) + 4:24
19 L. MENSINK (NED) + 4:30
20 N. SAMUELS (NZL) + 4:43
21 E. DENSHAM (AUS) + 4:58
22 D. TANNER (NZL) + 5:37
23 A. MURUA (ESP) + 5:38
24 M. CZESNIK (POL) + 5:43
25 M. ELLIS (USA) + 5:47
26 M. RABIE (RSA) + 5:50
27 J. SWALLOW (GBR) + 5:53
28 E. DEDERKO (POL) + 5:59
29 Z. SZABO (HUN) + 6:14
30 Y. LIU (CHN) + 6:18
31 A. MONIZ (POR) + 6:27
32 Z. RODRIGUEZ (ESP) + 6:28
33 P. HIDALGO (ESP) + 6:33
34 S. SCHÜTZ (SUI) + 6:46
35 E. WILLIAMSON (NZL) + 7:13
Thursday, 27 March 2008
Mooloolaba world cup looms large in kiwi Olympic dreams
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
27th March 2008.
The holiday beachside town of Mooloolaba in Australia will this weekend take on special significance for a number of New Zealand's triathlon elite as the final spots on the Beijing Olympic team are decided.
Sunday sees the opening ITU BG World Cup race of the year at Mooloolaba but more importantly for those yet to qualify for Beijing, it is the final Olympic qualifying race as set down by Tri NZ and with one spot on the line in both men's and women's teams, competition is fierce indeed.
Rowing may have had Waddell versus Drysdale but Triathlon has that level of competition in both men's and women's divisions for their third spots in Beijing, with world class athletes certain to miss out such is the depth of the sport.
In the men's it is generally agreed that the match race to join Bevan Docherty and Kris Gemmell on the start line in Beijing is between world number 25 Shane Reed and world number 27 Terenzo Bozzone. Adding to the intrigue is the fact these two athletes couldn't be any more different if they tried.
34 year old Reed has over 70 World Cups to his long CV, is quietly spoken, married with new son Lucas and lives and trains in provincial New Plymouth. He has recently teamed up with Coach Brendon Downey.
The now Australian based mentor believes his charge is ready for a big day.
"We didn't peak for Wellington and since then patience has been the key with the focus on steady training sessions, I am very happy with where Shane is heading into this race," said Downey.
"Incredibly he has raced Mooloolaba 12 times so knows the course and the surroundings intimately with regards strategy and tactics. I think that experience will be extremely helpful to him on Sunday."
23 year old Bozzone is a two time World Junior champion, has already raced 17 World Cups, enjoys a high profile and is always ready for an interview or sponsor opportunity.
But the North Shore based athlete makes no bones about the ultimate goal of racing at the Olympics.
"I have been looking forward to the Mooloolaba World Cup for some time now; it is going to play a huge role in how the rest of my year will unfold. If all goes to plan I will be in Beijing in August representing NZ at what has always been my biggest dream/goal – the Olympic Games."
But while Bozzone may be young in years; he is experienced enough in racing to know not to get carried away.
"This weekend will just be another race, but with the amount of importance placed on it I hope that it is just another race, albeit one that goes to plan.
"I am going to have to race strong from start to finish. Shane is a good athlete and there are others capable of a big performance on the day so there will be no room for error on my behalf."
The others referred to by Bozzone include Clark Ellice and James Elvery, both of whom will compete on Sunday hoping for the race of their lives if they are to upset their more fancied rivals.
If Reed and Bozzone are the two to watch in the men's there can be no question that Nicky Samuels and Andrea Hewitt are the two racing for the final spot alongside Sam Warriner and Debbie Tanner in the women's race at Beijing.
Samuels has enjoyed a busy racing summer, winning the Contact Energy Cup Series and in the process defeating her higher ranked rival and sometimes training partner, most recently running past Hewitt into third at the Oceania Championships in Wellington.
Hewitt though has clearly targeted Mooloolaba and with a world ranking of 15th against Samuels 30th ranking is the slight favourite. The Christchurch athlete is ready for Sunday.
"I have had a mixed bag of summer training in preparation but I believe I have had the best taper," said Hewitt.
"I have a set of fresh legs for Mooloolaba. The Olympics only comes around every 4 years, I want to make the most of it."
Hewitt plans to race as usual on Sunday and rely on a game plan that has led her to success in the past.
"I always focus on having a good swim to set me up for a good bike and then use every last bit of energy on the 10km run."
The criteria for nomination is simple yet demanding. For any New Zealand athlete to effectively book their ticket to Beijing they must be the first New Zealander (not yet qualified for Beijing) and finish in the top five at Mooloolaba. Anything less than this will see the decision or decisions left in the hands of the Tri NZ selectors. This is also assuming the athlete meets other Tri NZ and ITU criteria.
Regardless, any nominations will first be approved by the Tri NZ Board and then forwarded to the New Zealand Olympic Committee for ratification before the athlete is assured of their place at the Games.
27th March 2008.
The holiday beachside town of Mooloolaba in Australia will this weekend take on special significance for a number of New Zealand's triathlon elite as the final spots on the Beijing Olympic team are decided.
Sunday sees the opening ITU BG World Cup race of the year at Mooloolaba but more importantly for those yet to qualify for Beijing, it is the final Olympic qualifying race as set down by Tri NZ and with one spot on the line in both men's and women's teams, competition is fierce indeed.
Rowing may have had Waddell versus Drysdale but Triathlon has that level of competition in both men's and women's divisions for their third spots in Beijing, with world class athletes certain to miss out such is the depth of the sport.
In the men's it is generally agreed that the match race to join Bevan Docherty and Kris Gemmell on the start line in Beijing is between world number 25 Shane Reed and world number 27 Terenzo Bozzone. Adding to the intrigue is the fact these two athletes couldn't be any more different if they tried.
34 year old Reed has over 70 World Cups to his long CV, is quietly spoken, married with new son Lucas and lives and trains in provincial New Plymouth. He has recently teamed up with Coach Brendon Downey.
The now Australian based mentor believes his charge is ready for a big day.
"We didn't peak for Wellington and since then patience has been the key with the focus on steady training sessions, I am very happy with where Shane is heading into this race," said Downey.
"Incredibly he has raced Mooloolaba 12 times so knows the course and the surroundings intimately with regards strategy and tactics. I think that experience will be extremely helpful to him on Sunday."
23 year old Bozzone is a two time World Junior champion, has already raced 17 World Cups, enjoys a high profile and is always ready for an interview or sponsor opportunity.
But the North Shore based athlete makes no bones about the ultimate goal of racing at the Olympics.
"I have been looking forward to the Mooloolaba World Cup for some time now; it is going to play a huge role in how the rest of my year will unfold. If all goes to plan I will be in Beijing in August representing NZ at what has always been my biggest dream/goal – the Olympic Games."
But while Bozzone may be young in years; he is experienced enough in racing to know not to get carried away.
"This weekend will just be another race, but with the amount of importance placed on it I hope that it is just another race, albeit one that goes to plan.
"I am going to have to race strong from start to finish. Shane is a good athlete and there are others capable of a big performance on the day so there will be no room for error on my behalf."
The others referred to by Bozzone include Clark Ellice and James Elvery, both of whom will compete on Sunday hoping for the race of their lives if they are to upset their more fancied rivals.
If Reed and Bozzone are the two to watch in the men's there can be no question that Nicky Samuels and Andrea Hewitt are the two racing for the final spot alongside Sam Warriner and Debbie Tanner in the women's race at Beijing.
Samuels has enjoyed a busy racing summer, winning the Contact Energy Cup Series and in the process defeating her higher ranked rival and sometimes training partner, most recently running past Hewitt into third at the Oceania Championships in Wellington.
Hewitt though has clearly targeted Mooloolaba and with a world ranking of 15th against Samuels 30th ranking is the slight favourite. The Christchurch athlete is ready for Sunday.
"I have had a mixed bag of summer training in preparation but I believe I have had the best taper," said Hewitt.
"I have a set of fresh legs for Mooloolaba. The Olympics only comes around every 4 years, I want to make the most of it."
Hewitt plans to race as usual on Sunday and rely on a game plan that has led her to success in the past.
"I always focus on having a good swim to set me up for a good bike and then use every last bit of energy on the 10km run."
The criteria for nomination is simple yet demanding. For any New Zealand athlete to effectively book their ticket to Beijing they must be the first New Zealander (not yet qualified for Beijing) and finish in the top five at Mooloolaba. Anything less than this will see the decision or decisions left in the hands of the Tri NZ selectors. This is also assuming the athlete meets other Tri NZ and ITU criteria.
Regardless, any nominations will first be approved by the Tri NZ Board and then forwarded to the New Zealand Olympic Committee for ratification before the athlete is assured of their place at the Games.
Thursday, 20 March 2008
South Island triathlon series draws to a close in Blenheim
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
20th March 2008.
The Michael Huntley Memorial Triathlon in Blenheim this Saturday signals the end of the 2008 South Island Tri-Multisports Club Championships season with individual race honours and overall championship titles up for grabs.
The Blenheim Physiotherapy and Mitchell Sports Power sponsored event offers a variety of race distances and disciplines including a standard distance triathlon with points counting towards the South Island Championship.
Other races include short duathlon, long duathlon and a sprint triathlon. All races are based at the Delta Lake, 6km west of Renwick and will take athletes compete in stunning scenery over a challenging yet achievable course.
Amongst the favourites will be previous winners Susie Aviss (long duathlon), Geoff Robinson (long duathlon) and Almuth Waechter (standard triathlon).
Athletes competing in the standard triathlon in the six categories: junior men, junior women (under 19), open men, open women, masters men and masters women (over 40), score points for their clubs in the race to find the number one South Island Triathlon and Multisport club.
First placed athletes will score six points, decreasing to one point for sixth placing. Previous races in this South Island Series were in Invercargill, Queenstown, Timaru, Christchurch, and Dunedin.
Canterbury and Dunedin Triathlon clubs are neck and neck with only seven points between them heading into the final event to be held in the series.
First athlete across the line in the Standard Distance Triathlon will receive the prestigious Michael Huntley Memorial Cup.
Registration is at 8.00am at race headquarters at Delta Lake. Racing starts at 9.30am on Saturday March 22nd.
20th March 2008.
The Michael Huntley Memorial Triathlon in Blenheim this Saturday signals the end of the 2008 South Island Tri-Multisports Club Championships season with individual race honours and overall championship titles up for grabs.
The Blenheim Physiotherapy and Mitchell Sports Power sponsored event offers a variety of race distances and disciplines including a standard distance triathlon with points counting towards the South Island Championship.
Other races include short duathlon, long duathlon and a sprint triathlon. All races are based at the Delta Lake, 6km west of Renwick and will take athletes compete in stunning scenery over a challenging yet achievable course.
Amongst the favourites will be previous winners Susie Aviss (long duathlon), Geoff Robinson (long duathlon) and Almuth Waechter (standard triathlon).
Athletes competing in the standard triathlon in the six categories: junior men, junior women (under 19), open men, open women, masters men and masters women (over 40), score points for their clubs in the race to find the number one South Island Triathlon and Multisport club.
First placed athletes will score six points, decreasing to one point for sixth placing. Previous races in this South Island Series were in Invercargill, Queenstown, Timaru, Christchurch, and Dunedin.
Canterbury and Dunedin Triathlon clubs are neck and neck with only seven points between them heading into the final event to be held in the series.
First athlete across the line in the Standard Distance Triathlon will receive the prestigious Michael Huntley Memorial Cup.
Registration is at 8.00am at race headquarters at Delta Lake. Racing starts at 9.30am on Saturday March 22nd.
Monday, 17 March 2008
Ironman New Zealand TV schedule
The Ironman New Zealand 2008 race in Taupo will screen on NZ television at the following times:
Photographs
Official race photographs can be obtained from http://www.asiphoto.net/recent_events.html?&asievent=0238&L=0
Race Finish Videos
You can watch individual athletes finish at http://ironman.com/events/ironman/newzealand/?show=tracker&y=2008
Tuesday 18 March 8pm - Sky Sport 2International coverage on ESPN will be in May.
Wednesday 19 March 4pm - Sky Sport 1
Friday 21 March 11am - Sky Sport 1
Saturday 22 March 6am - Sky Sport 2
Photographs
Official race photographs can be obtained from http://www.asiphoto.net/recent_events.html?&asievent=0238&L=0
Race Finish Videos
You can watch individual athletes finish at http://ironman.com/events/ironman/newzealand/?show=tracker&y=2008
Southern Lakes women's event continues is success
Press Release: Southern Traverse Ltd.
16th March 2008.
With the fantastic weather spell continuing in the Wakatipu region, just on 250 women gathered at Lake Hayes show ground yesterday for the 15th annual Fresh Choice Southern Lakes Women's Duathlon and Triathlon.
Blue skies and hot sun greeted a race field of 130 individuals and 96 teams. Women travelled from Invercargill, Dunedin, Twizel, Alexandra, and Wanaka regions to take part.
Race Director, Geoff Hunt, was delighted with the interest received for this year's race. "More individuals, and especially more teams of women than ever, are keen to get out and have a go at a triathlon or duathlon and enjoy the all female race environment. There is a great atmosphere out in the field, and the event encourages participation of women at all levels of fitness."
"The introduction of a duathlon last year event also proved a great success with 104 women competing in this division with more than 250 women competing in the triathlon."
Andrea Elvines from Dunedin won the Individual Open Triathlon category in a very fast time of 53 mins 30 secs. Sarah Cole from Queenstown came second in a time of 54 mins 36 secs.
In the popular Veteran Individual category, first to cross the line was the overall winner Andrea Elvines, showing that she is getting faster with age, while the third place getter and second Vet was Philippa Findlay from Wanaka, who finished in 57mins 22 secs. She finished second in this division last year as well.
The teams category is always hotly contested especially in the Business House section where the girls from Back on Track were beaten, after taking the trophy the last two years, by the Naylor Lovelies on the adjusted kayak times. The Naylor Lovelies were second last year but a strong race this year saw them take out this division in a time of 56 minutes and 47 secs.
The Open Team category was won with the 8th fastest time of the day in 56mins 59secs by the Deidre Debbie Georgia team, while the fastest team of the day was the Femme Fatale 3 who finished with a time of 56mins and 05 secs
The duathlon introduced for the first time last year into the long established event proved a huge success again with more than half the individual field opting for the non swimming event. Starting with a 1.5km run the duathletes, teams and individuals arrived in transition at the same time as the swim athletes and were soon out of the new arena transition onto the bikes, before running the same 5km run as the triathlon.
First duathletes home Tania Causer in 52mins and second placed Lisa Schbert in 55mins 51secs showed a clean pair of heels to the other individuals and teams in this field. The closest the teams could get was the Generation Gap team in 57 mins 29secs, with Vet Team FXP second in 1hr 01 mins and 37secs, while the quickest Business House Team was Tessa and Sue finished in 1hr 05 mins and 08 secs.
The duathlon veteran individual was won by Clare Challis in 1hr 32secs.
The hot Saturday weather encouraged many of the athletes to enjoy a picnic while the prize giving proceeded with the Katherine Switzer 'Marathon Women' book going to the fastest time of the day Tania Causer in the Duathlon, and the Sarah Ulmer mountain bike spot prize going to no 85 Moira Gaston from Cromwell.
16th March 2008.
With the fantastic weather spell continuing in the Wakatipu region, just on 250 women gathered at Lake Hayes show ground yesterday for the 15th annual Fresh Choice Southern Lakes Women's Duathlon and Triathlon.
Blue skies and hot sun greeted a race field of 130 individuals and 96 teams. Women travelled from Invercargill, Dunedin, Twizel, Alexandra, and Wanaka regions to take part.
Race Director, Geoff Hunt, was delighted with the interest received for this year's race. "More individuals, and especially more teams of women than ever, are keen to get out and have a go at a triathlon or duathlon and enjoy the all female race environment. There is a great atmosphere out in the field, and the event encourages participation of women at all levels of fitness."
"The introduction of a duathlon last year event also proved a great success with 104 women competing in this division with more than 250 women competing in the triathlon."
Andrea Elvines from Dunedin won the Individual Open Triathlon category in a very fast time of 53 mins 30 secs. Sarah Cole from Queenstown came second in a time of 54 mins 36 secs.
In the popular Veteran Individual category, first to cross the line was the overall winner Andrea Elvines, showing that she is getting faster with age, while the third place getter and second Vet was Philippa Findlay from Wanaka, who finished in 57mins 22 secs. She finished second in this division last year as well.
The teams category is always hotly contested especially in the Business House section where the girls from Back on Track were beaten, after taking the trophy the last two years, by the Naylor Lovelies on the adjusted kayak times. The Naylor Lovelies were second last year but a strong race this year saw them take out this division in a time of 56 minutes and 47 secs.
The Open Team category was won with the 8th fastest time of the day in 56mins 59secs by the Deidre Debbie Georgia team, while the fastest team of the day was the Femme Fatale 3 who finished with a time of 56mins and 05 secs
The duathlon introduced for the first time last year into the long established event proved a huge success again with more than half the individual field opting for the non swimming event. Starting with a 1.5km run the duathletes, teams and individuals arrived in transition at the same time as the swim athletes and were soon out of the new arena transition onto the bikes, before running the same 5km run as the triathlon.
First duathletes home Tania Causer in 52mins and second placed Lisa Schbert in 55mins 51secs showed a clean pair of heels to the other individuals and teams in this field. The closest the teams could get was the Generation Gap team in 57 mins 29secs, with Vet Team FXP second in 1hr 01 mins and 37secs, while the quickest Business House Team was Tessa and Sue finished in 1hr 05 mins and 08 secs.
The duathlon veteran individual was won by Clare Challis in 1hr 32secs.
The hot Saturday weather encouraged many of the athletes to enjoy a picnic while the prize giving proceeded with the Katherine Switzer 'Marathon Women' book going to the fastest time of the day Tania Causer in the Duathlon, and the Sarah Ulmer mountain bike spot prize going to no 85 Moira Gaston from Cromwell.
Monday, 10 March 2008
Aussie women one two at Wellington Oceania Triathlon Championships 2008
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
9 March 2008.
It was an Australian one two in difficult conditions at the Oceania Triathlon Championships in Wellington today with Emma Moffat out running compatriot Annabel Luxford and Nicky Samuels (NZL).
Emma Moffat taking out the Oceania championships.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
Moffat was hugely impressive and looked like she could run another ten kilometres when she crossed the line almost two minutes clear of her countrywoman. The two had dominated the majority of the race, sharing the work load throughout the bike leg with New Zealander Andrea Hewitt before running strongly to a one two finish.
Hewitt faded on the run as she eyed the Mooloolaba World Cup in three weeks and her ambition of qualifying for the Beijing Olympic Games, eventually being run down by her main rival in that race Nicky Samuels.
Moffat though was delighted with her days work in warm but blustery conditions.
"That was bloody windy and tough the whole race but it was a good race, I felt great the whole day. My transition out of the bike and on to the run was great and from then I just ran solid and established what proved to be a winning lead. I have not tapered for this, I raced last week as well but the real aim is Mooloolaba in three weeks."
In contrast Luxford crossed the line suffering from a shin injury and immediately sought ice to soothe the pain and inflammation.
The women bunch up in blustery conditions on the bike.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
"The wind made that so tough today. I swam well and led into transition but lost some time as a shoe had fallen off my bike. I had to work hard early on to get back on the lead bunch. From there we worked well together but from the moment I hit the run I was feeling the shin and struggled for the most part. The injury has flared up in the last week or so, I'm just glad to have this race out of the way and I will look to sort it out when I get home."
Chasing the Australians for most of the day was Nicky Samuels who admitted to messing up the swim.
"I basically screwed the swim today. I missed a surge from the others and struggled to get rid of someone on my hip dragging me down. Once I got clear of them I swam strongly but had lost contact with the leaders."
"The bike was basically a 40km ride on my own in the wind, it was tough. But I stayed in contact and ran strongly today to pick up Andrea and get on the podium. The run has been an issue for me of late, so today was a good sign. It is all preparation for Mooloolaba in three weeks."
The Under 23 title was dominated by Australian Felicity Sheedy-Ryan, her winning margin was close to six minutes. The battle for second and third was close however and fought out between New Zealanders Anna Elvery and Jacqui Seebold, with Elvery holding on for victory.
Racing was play out in front of huge and enthusiastic crowds around Wellington's Oriental Parade and Waitangi Park with age group races completed earlier in the morning. Athletes were chasing qualifying spots at the World Championships in Vancouver in August in all age categories.
The teams event was notable for the inclusion of close to 30 teams from Contact Energy, proving that they take their role as Contact Energy My Sport Series sponsor more seriously than just the writing of a cheque!
Oceania Triathlon Championships, Wellington 9 March 2008
Elite Women
1. Emma Moffat AUS 2.06.36
2. Annabel Luxford AUS 2.08.11
3. Nicky Samuels NZL 2.10.30
4. Andrea Hewitt NZL 2.10.47
5. Samantha Warriner NZL 2.11.22
6. Anja Dittmer GER 2.11.30
7. Alee Sharp AUS 2.11.46
8. Debbie Tanner NZL 2.13.05
9. Carmel Hanley NZL 2.14.19
10. Merja Kiviranta FIN 2.14.21
U23 Women
1. Felicity Sheedy-Ryan AUS 2.12.37
2. Anna Elvery NZL 2.18.25
3. Jaqui Seebold NZL 2.18.30
4. Hee Joo Kim KOR 2.18.58
5. Julia Grant NZL 2.21.32
Emma Moffet - Oceania 2008
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
9 March 2008.
It was an Australian one two in difficult conditions at the Oceania Triathlon Championships in Wellington today with Emma Moffat out running compatriot Annabel Luxford and Nicky Samuels (NZL).
Emma Moffat taking out the Oceania championships.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
Moffat was hugely impressive and looked like she could run another ten kilometres when she crossed the line almost two minutes clear of her countrywoman. The two had dominated the majority of the race, sharing the work load throughout the bike leg with New Zealander Andrea Hewitt before running strongly to a one two finish.
Hewitt faded on the run as she eyed the Mooloolaba World Cup in three weeks and her ambition of qualifying for the Beijing Olympic Games, eventually being run down by her main rival in that race Nicky Samuels.
Moffat though was delighted with her days work in warm but blustery conditions.
"That was bloody windy and tough the whole race but it was a good race, I felt great the whole day. My transition out of the bike and on to the run was great and from then I just ran solid and established what proved to be a winning lead. I have not tapered for this, I raced last week as well but the real aim is Mooloolaba in three weeks."
In contrast Luxford crossed the line suffering from a shin injury and immediately sought ice to soothe the pain and inflammation.
The women bunch up in blustery conditions on the bike.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
"The wind made that so tough today. I swam well and led into transition but lost some time as a shoe had fallen off my bike. I had to work hard early on to get back on the lead bunch. From there we worked well together but from the moment I hit the run I was feeling the shin and struggled for the most part. The injury has flared up in the last week or so, I'm just glad to have this race out of the way and I will look to sort it out when I get home."
Chasing the Australians for most of the day was Nicky Samuels who admitted to messing up the swim.
"I basically screwed the swim today. I missed a surge from the others and struggled to get rid of someone on my hip dragging me down. Once I got clear of them I swam strongly but had lost contact with the leaders."
"The bike was basically a 40km ride on my own in the wind, it was tough. But I stayed in contact and ran strongly today to pick up Andrea and get on the podium. The run has been an issue for me of late, so today was a good sign. It is all preparation for Mooloolaba in three weeks."
The Under 23 title was dominated by Australian Felicity Sheedy-Ryan, her winning margin was close to six minutes. The battle for second and third was close however and fought out between New Zealanders Anna Elvery and Jacqui Seebold, with Elvery holding on for victory.
Racing was play out in front of huge and enthusiastic crowds around Wellington's Oriental Parade and Waitangi Park with age group races completed earlier in the morning. Athletes were chasing qualifying spots at the World Championships in Vancouver in August in all age categories.
The teams event was notable for the inclusion of close to 30 teams from Contact Energy, proving that they take their role as Contact Energy My Sport Series sponsor more seriously than just the writing of a cheque!
Oceania Triathlon Championships, Wellington 9 March 2008
Elite Women
1. Emma Moffat AUS 2.06.36
2. Annabel Luxford AUS 2.08.11
3. Nicky Samuels NZL 2.10.30
4. Andrea Hewitt NZL 2.10.47
5. Samantha Warriner NZL 2.11.22
6. Anja Dittmer GER 2.11.30
7. Alee Sharp AUS 2.11.46
8. Debbie Tanner NZL 2.13.05
9. Carmel Hanley NZL 2.14.19
10. Merja Kiviranta FIN 2.14.21
U23 Women
1. Felicity Sheedy-Ryan AUS 2.12.37
2. Anna Elvery NZL 2.18.25
3. Jaqui Seebold NZL 2.18.30
4. Hee Joo Kim KOR 2.18.58
5. Julia Grant NZL 2.21.32
Emma Moffet - Oceania 2008
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
Reed secures New Zealand a third Olympic spot
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
9 March 2008.
Blustery but warm conditions greeted triathletes in the ITU Oceania Triathlon Championships in Wellington today and it was Shane Reed (NZL) who mastered them best to take out the elite men's and women's races respectively in a busy day of racing that also carried NZ Standard Distance titles and points for the final round of the Contact Energy My Sport Series.
The elite men, Oceania 2008.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
The Australians had been hit by the earlier withdrawal of both Craig Walton and Peter Robertson, both were listed to start but were late no shows for the Wellington event. Nonetheless it was a large and strong contingent of green and gold that turned up to challenge the Kiwis in their back yard.
Australian Clayton Fettell led out of the water but not by far. He had close company in countryman Joshua Amberger and with Kris Gemmell in third the leading Kiwi out of the water.
Top ranked New Zealander Bevan Docherty trailed the leaders by 33 seconds into transition in 15th place. Most of the heavyweights were inside that top fifteen with Beijing hopeful Shane Reed (NZL), Matt Hopper (AUS) and James Sear (AUS) all swimming well in choppy conditions.
Docherty worked hard in the early stages of the bike in blustery conditions and soon found himself not only in the lead bunch of a dozen athletes but leading them. It was a class Trans-Tasman battle with the numbers split about even between the two nations.
Off the bike it quickly became evident it was a day for the more experienced and strong athletes with the wind buffeting the athletes around the picturesque Oriental Bay course with Docherty, Gemmell and Reed leading the way. U23 Aussie James Seear was the only one able to go with them but by his own admission was only holding on.
When Docherty surged with two laps to go Gemmell and Seear were unable to go with the pace, leaving just Reed to challenge the World number four in the run to the finish line.
And challenge him he did, eventually running clear to the adulation of the large pro-Kiwi crowd and the welcoming arms of his wife and young boy. It was an emotional Reed following the race.
"My grandfather passed away this week and the funeral was on Friday, but I'm sure he was up there watching over me today, I was very much racing for him today."
In winning Reed has secured a third starting spot at the Beijing Olympics for New Zealand but knows he still has work to do to earn a start himself.
Shane Reed takes the Oceania 2008 title.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
"I felt strong all day and I'm delighted obviously to win and also to book New Zealand a third spot at Beijing. I just hope I haven't peaked too early because I know have it all to do again in Mooloolaba in three weeks. I guess I just have to go there and win again."
Bevan Docherty came home second and he too said he felt great all day.
"I felt really strong all day actually, stronger than I thought I would. I dominated the bike for most of the distance, there were a number of weak riders not doing their share in that lead group so I pushed things along. I'm in the middle of some hard training weeks and have not tapered for this so I am pleased with the way things went."
Docherty understood the significance of Reed's win for New Zealand.
"Obviously I was racing to win but if anyone had to beat me today I guess it is good that it was Shane. That confirms three of us on the start line in Beijing which is great for the sport here."
James Seear has had a tough couple of years fighting illness and injury and was delighted with his third overall and win in the U23 category.
"This is brilliant, just brilliant. I started strongly with a good swim in choppy conditions. My aim was to be amongst the lead group on to the bike and that was achieved. From there it was run strong and hold on. I needed top five today to be automatic for the World Championships so it is mission accomplished."
"I stayed with Bevan and Shane for as long as I could but when they surged with a couple of laps to go, I had nothing in reserve."
The Under 23 title went down to the wire with two Kiwis sprinting to the line. Tony Dodds just held on from Ben Visser with the official timing separating the two by just the one second. Both had raced superbly in difficult conditions and had nothing left as they crossed the line.
The day had started with age group races for both men and women with a huge turnout in all events, in particular the teams event with series sponsor Contact Energy putting up an amazing 28 teams on the day.
Huge crowds lined Oriental Parade and the transition area at Waitangi Park on the Wellington waterfront.
Oceania Triathlon Championships, Wellington 9 March 2008
Elite Men
1. Shane Reed NZL 1.55.29
2. Bevan Docherty NZL 1.55.42
3. James Seear NZL 1.56.13
4. Matt Hopper AUS 1.56.28
5. Kris Gemmell NZL 1.56.48
6. Dan Wilson AUS 1.56.54
7. David Matthews AUS 1.57.06
8. David Dellow AUS 1.57.24
9. Graham O'Grady NZL 1.57.59
10. Callum Millward NZL 1.58.21
Under 23 men
1. Tony Dodds NZL 1.57.37
2. Benjamin Visser NZL 1.57.38
3. Martin Van Barneveld NZL 1.58.09
4. Ryan Sissons NZL 1.58.59
5. Min Ho Heo KOR 1.59.00
9 March 2008.
Blustery but warm conditions greeted triathletes in the ITU Oceania Triathlon Championships in Wellington today and it was Shane Reed (NZL) who mastered them best to take out the elite men's and women's races respectively in a busy day of racing that also carried NZ Standard Distance titles and points for the final round of the Contact Energy My Sport Series.
The elite men, Oceania 2008.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
The Australians had been hit by the earlier withdrawal of both Craig Walton and Peter Robertson, both were listed to start but were late no shows for the Wellington event. Nonetheless it was a large and strong contingent of green and gold that turned up to challenge the Kiwis in their back yard.
Australian Clayton Fettell led out of the water but not by far. He had close company in countryman Joshua Amberger and with Kris Gemmell in third the leading Kiwi out of the water.
Top ranked New Zealander Bevan Docherty trailed the leaders by 33 seconds into transition in 15th place. Most of the heavyweights were inside that top fifteen with Beijing hopeful Shane Reed (NZL), Matt Hopper (AUS) and James Sear (AUS) all swimming well in choppy conditions.
Docherty worked hard in the early stages of the bike in blustery conditions and soon found himself not only in the lead bunch of a dozen athletes but leading them. It was a class Trans-Tasman battle with the numbers split about even between the two nations.
Off the bike it quickly became evident it was a day for the more experienced and strong athletes with the wind buffeting the athletes around the picturesque Oriental Bay course with Docherty, Gemmell and Reed leading the way. U23 Aussie James Seear was the only one able to go with them but by his own admission was only holding on.
When Docherty surged with two laps to go Gemmell and Seear were unable to go with the pace, leaving just Reed to challenge the World number four in the run to the finish line.
And challenge him he did, eventually running clear to the adulation of the large pro-Kiwi crowd and the welcoming arms of his wife and young boy. It was an emotional Reed following the race.
"My grandfather passed away this week and the funeral was on Friday, but I'm sure he was up there watching over me today, I was very much racing for him today."
In winning Reed has secured a third starting spot at the Beijing Olympics for New Zealand but knows he still has work to do to earn a start himself.
Shane Reed takes the Oceania 2008 title.
(Photo credit: Mike Heydon, TriNZ).
"I felt strong all day and I'm delighted obviously to win and also to book New Zealand a third spot at Beijing. I just hope I haven't peaked too early because I know have it all to do again in Mooloolaba in three weeks. I guess I just have to go there and win again."
Bevan Docherty came home second and he too said he felt great all day.
"I felt really strong all day actually, stronger than I thought I would. I dominated the bike for most of the distance, there were a number of weak riders not doing their share in that lead group so I pushed things along. I'm in the middle of some hard training weeks and have not tapered for this so I am pleased with the way things went."
Docherty understood the significance of Reed's win for New Zealand.
"Obviously I was racing to win but if anyone had to beat me today I guess it is good that it was Shane. That confirms three of us on the start line in Beijing which is great for the sport here."
James Seear has had a tough couple of years fighting illness and injury and was delighted with his third overall and win in the U23 category.
"This is brilliant, just brilliant. I started strongly with a good swim in choppy conditions. My aim was to be amongst the lead group on to the bike and that was achieved. From there it was run strong and hold on. I needed top five today to be automatic for the World Championships so it is mission accomplished."
"I stayed with Bevan and Shane for as long as I could but when they surged with a couple of laps to go, I had nothing in reserve."
The Under 23 title went down to the wire with two Kiwis sprinting to the line. Tony Dodds just held on from Ben Visser with the official timing separating the two by just the one second. Both had raced superbly in difficult conditions and had nothing left as they crossed the line.
The day had started with age group races for both men and women with a huge turnout in all events, in particular the teams event with series sponsor Contact Energy putting up an amazing 28 teams on the day.
Huge crowds lined Oriental Parade and the transition area at Waitangi Park on the Wellington waterfront.
Oceania Triathlon Championships, Wellington 9 March 2008
Elite Men
1. Shane Reed NZL 1.55.29
2. Bevan Docherty NZL 1.55.42
3. James Seear NZL 1.56.13
4. Matt Hopper AUS 1.56.28
5. Kris Gemmell NZL 1.56.48
6. Dan Wilson AUS 1.56.54
7. David Matthews AUS 1.57.06
8. David Dellow AUS 1.57.24
9. Graham O'Grady NZL 1.57.59
10. Callum Millward NZL 1.58.21
Under 23 men
1. Tony Dodds NZL 1.57.37
2. Benjamin Visser NZL 1.57.38
3. Martin Van Barneveld NZL 1.58.09
4. Ryan Sissons NZL 1.58.59
5. Min Ho Heo KOR 1.59.00
Saturday, 8 March 2008
Strong field expected for Southern Lakes women's triathlon
Press Release: Southern Traverse Ltd.
6 March 2008.
The Fresh Choice Southern Lakes Women's Triathlon and Duathlon will be staged at Lake Hayes on March 15 for the 15th consecutive year with indications for a strong field.
Race Director Geoff Hunt says already 50 individuals and 15 teams have entered which is a good early response. "Traditionally half the competitors enter on the day and we expect around 140 individuals and 40 teams in total."
The event is targeted at all levels of ability and is supported by Fresh Choice as title sponsor and Southern Lakes women in business.
Howard Nossiter of Fresh Choice says the company is sponsoring the event for the sixth consecutive year because it is "a non threatening, feel good event."
"It is a great community based event and we like the idea that women at any level can enter. They don't have to feel they need to be a superstar competing at a high level, as this event is something women at all levels can do either by themselves or with their mates and get a lot of enjoyment and a sense of achievement out of."
He says the triathlon is a good fit with Fresh Choice which aims to promote healthy eating and healthy living.
The event is based at the Lake Hayes domain and the triathlon course involves a 300metre swim or kayaking equivalent (approximately two kilometres) on Lake Hayes, 15km bike ride on the Lake Hayes/Arrowtown road into Speargrass Flat road and return and a 5km run/ walk on the Lake Hayes track.
The duathlon includes an initial 1.5km run on the Lake Hayes track, followed by a 15km bike ride and 5km run on the triathlon course.
Competitors are expected from all over the lower half of the South Island. "There is a lot of demand for this sort of event geared solely for women and we have established a good reputation for the high standards we adhere to in terms of organisation and safety," says Geoff Hunt.
A Sarah Ulmer bike, signed personally by Ulmer, is the main prize which will be allocated as a spot prize on a drawn bib number.
Last year the winning individual triathlete in the open section was Joanna Williams who completed the course in 56.05 and Ivonne McDonnell-Grant took the honours in the open duathlon category in 55.54.
The winning triathlon team was Pulse Fitness Chicks in 56.59 and Team Camp Wall won the duathlon open teams' section in 56.39.
Registration and bib collection at Lake Hayes Pavilion, Highway 6, Queenstown between 9.00am-10.30am. Race briefing at 10.45am and prize giving once the final competitor crosses the finish line at the Lake Hayes domain.
6 March 2008.
The Fresh Choice Southern Lakes Women's Triathlon and Duathlon will be staged at Lake Hayes on March 15 for the 15th consecutive year with indications for a strong field.
Race Director Geoff Hunt says already 50 individuals and 15 teams have entered which is a good early response. "Traditionally half the competitors enter on the day and we expect around 140 individuals and 40 teams in total."
The event is targeted at all levels of ability and is supported by Fresh Choice as title sponsor and Southern Lakes women in business.
Howard Nossiter of Fresh Choice says the company is sponsoring the event for the sixth consecutive year because it is "a non threatening, feel good event."
"It is a great community based event and we like the idea that women at any level can enter. They don't have to feel they need to be a superstar competing at a high level, as this event is something women at all levels can do either by themselves or with their mates and get a lot of enjoyment and a sense of achievement out of."
He says the triathlon is a good fit with Fresh Choice which aims to promote healthy eating and healthy living.
The event is based at the Lake Hayes domain and the triathlon course involves a 300metre swim or kayaking equivalent (approximately two kilometres) on Lake Hayes, 15km bike ride on the Lake Hayes/Arrowtown road into Speargrass Flat road and return and a 5km run/ walk on the Lake Hayes track.
The duathlon includes an initial 1.5km run on the Lake Hayes track, followed by a 15km bike ride and 5km run on the triathlon course.
Competitors are expected from all over the lower half of the South Island. "There is a lot of demand for this sort of event geared solely for women and we have established a good reputation for the high standards we adhere to in terms of organisation and safety," says Geoff Hunt.
A Sarah Ulmer bike, signed personally by Ulmer, is the main prize which will be allocated as a spot prize on a drawn bib number.
Last year the winning individual triathlete in the open section was Joanna Williams who completed the course in 56.05 and Ivonne McDonnell-Grant took the honours in the open duathlon category in 55.54.
The winning triathlon team was Pulse Fitness Chicks in 56.59 and Team Camp Wall won the duathlon open teams' section in 56.39.
Registration and bib collection at Lake Hayes Pavilion, Highway 6, Queenstown between 9.00am-10.30am. Race briefing at 10.45am and prize giving once the final competitor crosses the finish line at the Lake Hayes domain.
Sam Warriner's take on Wellington elite event
Press Release: Sam Warriner.
4 March 2008.
This Sunday sees all of New Zealand's top triathletes line up for race honours for the first time since last September's Olympic qualifier in Beijing.
Summer has seen the Kiwi athletes take different paths as a result of that day in China.
Having worked hard to qualify first time round, Sam Warriner has had the luxury of a long build up to this year's Olympics. This is something she is relishing at the moment. Sam is currently in the middle of a large block of base training aimed at her peaking just the once in 2008. It's all about one day in August for Sam.
The New Zealand Triathlon Championships will be a fiercely contested event both in the water and on the streets of Wellington. Sam's Potential Olympic team mates Nicky Samuels and Andrea Hewitt still have it all to prove, starting this Sunday.
As always Sam goes into the race with one goal in mind; to give it 100% pure honest effort. Sam has been the New Zealand elite champion for 2 consecutive years.
Although Sam has no expectations as to her final placing she is eager to get back into competition in what will be an exciting year for her.
Some questions and answers from Sam:
Q) How are you feeling going into this Sunday?
Sam- "I'm feeling good as I know I've been training well and I'm enjoying my training too. I am going into it with an open mind to see where my form is at. I'm aware I have just come off a big week of running so I've no expectations, just going to go out there give it 100% and enjoy it. It's my first race of the season and what better way to start it but by racing at home in NZ"
Q) Who do you see as your main competition?
Sam-"Nicky Samuels is obviously having a great season, she's been unstoppable in the My Sport Series and is getting ready to peak at Mooloolaba in two weeks. Andrea will also be in top form with the same goal, so they will be ready for a good hard race. The Australians Annabel Luxford, Emma Moffat and Erin Densham will be strong as they only have one Olympic spot gone, so there's two still for the taking. A strong showing on Sunday would impress the Australian selectors. The fast runners Debbie Tanner and Anja Dittmer are also sure to be up there and strong contenders".
Q) What have you been doing differently this summer?
Sam-"I have been staying in Auckland and training with the Tri squad. It's been good as living in Auckland everything is so near, but I have missed my partner and home. It was also hard at first with setting up new appointments like massages, gym membership and so on. I have done a lot more of my sessions in the open water simulating the 1500m intensity. And I've been working with Corey Hutchings and his surf squad for one week a month in Gisborne. I have also been doing a lot more running with men and have been doing some run races too. Cycling took a while to get used to in Auckland as the traffic lights there always seem to be red".
Q) Who's going to qualify next out of Andrea and Nicky?
Sam-"I would not like to say as they are both determined athletes who are dedicated and have worked incredibly hard. I'm just glad I'm not in their situation!"
Q) What do you hope to achieve this Sunday, what will make it a good race for you?
Sam-"I hope to have a good swim, be aggressive at the start and get out with the lead group. Corey has taught me a few tricks so hopefully I'll get chance to use them. On the bike I'll ride strongly taking my turn, keeping my cadence high and then get off the bike and run fast just as I always do".
4 March 2008.
This Sunday sees all of New Zealand's top triathletes line up for race honours for the first time since last September's Olympic qualifier in Beijing.
Summer has seen the Kiwi athletes take different paths as a result of that day in China.
Having worked hard to qualify first time round, Sam Warriner has had the luxury of a long build up to this year's Olympics. This is something she is relishing at the moment. Sam is currently in the middle of a large block of base training aimed at her peaking just the once in 2008. It's all about one day in August for Sam.
The New Zealand Triathlon Championships will be a fiercely contested event both in the water and on the streets of Wellington. Sam's Potential Olympic team mates Nicky Samuels and Andrea Hewitt still have it all to prove, starting this Sunday.
As always Sam goes into the race with one goal in mind; to give it 100% pure honest effort. Sam has been the New Zealand elite champion for 2 consecutive years.
Although Sam has no expectations as to her final placing she is eager to get back into competition in what will be an exciting year for her.
Some questions and answers from Sam:
Q) How are you feeling going into this Sunday?
Sam- "I'm feeling good as I know I've been training well and I'm enjoying my training too. I am going into it with an open mind to see where my form is at. I'm aware I have just come off a big week of running so I've no expectations, just going to go out there give it 100% and enjoy it. It's my first race of the season and what better way to start it but by racing at home in NZ"
Q) Who do you see as your main competition?
Sam-"Nicky Samuels is obviously having a great season, she's been unstoppable in the My Sport Series and is getting ready to peak at Mooloolaba in two weeks. Andrea will also be in top form with the same goal, so they will be ready for a good hard race. The Australians Annabel Luxford, Emma Moffat and Erin Densham will be strong as they only have one Olympic spot gone, so there's two still for the taking. A strong showing on Sunday would impress the Australian selectors. The fast runners Debbie Tanner and Anja Dittmer are also sure to be up there and strong contenders".
Q) What have you been doing differently this summer?
Sam-"I have been staying in Auckland and training with the Tri squad. It's been good as living in Auckland everything is so near, but I have missed my partner and home. It was also hard at first with setting up new appointments like massages, gym membership and so on. I have done a lot more of my sessions in the open water simulating the 1500m intensity. And I've been working with Corey Hutchings and his surf squad for one week a month in Gisborne. I have also been doing a lot more running with men and have been doing some run races too. Cycling took a while to get used to in Auckland as the traffic lights there always seem to be red".
Q) Who's going to qualify next out of Andrea and Nicky?
Sam-"I would not like to say as they are both determined athletes who are dedicated and have worked incredibly hard. I'm just glad I'm not in their situation!"
Q) What do you hope to achieve this Sunday, what will make it a good race for you?
Sam-"I hope to have a good swim, be aggressive at the start and get out with the lead group. Corey has taught me a few tricks so hopefully I'll get chance to use them. On the bike I'll ride strongly taking my turn, keeping my cadence high and then get off the bike and run fast just as I always do".
Wellington play host to triathlon elite
Press Release: Triathlon New Zealand.
4 March 2008.
This weekend Wellington hosts the 2008 Oceania Standard Distance Triathlon Championships, an event that also carries points for the seventh and final round of the Contact Energy My Sport Series and National Standard Distance titles in all races and age groups.
Given such a billing and in Olympic year, it is no surprise that a stellar field of the world's best triathletes is set to descend on the capital city as individuals and national teams search for vital ranking points ahead of Beijing.
Tri NZ CEO Dave Beeche is delighted with the quality of the field for this weekend's elite races but stresses the large number of age group athletes also preparing to race.
"The elite races will be amongst the best we have ever seen in this country behind the World Cup and World Championship events we have hosted. Trans-Tasman rivalry will be at its best this weekend in both men's and women's races, especially with the lure of securing a third athlete at the Beijing Games to the winning country in men's and women's elite races.
"But we mustn't forget that the age group races earlier on the Sunday morning will see many New Zealanders putting months of training and preparation on the line as they look to fulfill their own personal goals and objectives. For some that will mean qualifying for the World Championships in Vancouver in August, for others it might simply be to finish the event in good shape. Regardless, we are in for a great weekend of triathlon."
Leading the way in the men's elite race are the best of the Kiwis, including Bevan Docherty (world number 4), Kris Gemmell (5th) and Beijing contenders Shane Reed (25th), Terenzo Bozzone (27th), Clark Ellice (95th) and James Elvery (105th).
A star studded Australian team is planning to gate crash the Kiwi party though, led by Beijing hopeful and three times World Champion Peter Robertson and former World Cup winner Craig Walton.
The Australians are sending a strong squad of athletes to Wellington and are likely to race in support of Robertson in particular as he chases an Oceania title and a large points haul to improve his and Australia's ranking ahead of Beijing.
Australia is presently outside the top eight nations on Olympic rankings and needs to improve if it is to secure three starting berths at Beijing. A win at the Oceania Championships by Robertson (or Craig Walton) will effectively ensure Australia has three on the start line in Beijing as the title carries with it automatic country inclusion at the games, provided the winning athlete hasn't already qualified.
It is possible therefore that New Zealand can guarantee three places at Beijing through winning the race on Sunday, provided that is the athlete hasn't already qualified for the Olympics. Bevan Docherty and Kris Gemmell are already confirmed for Beijing while the likes of Terenzo Bozzone, Shane Reed, James Elvery and Clark Ellice are chasing the possible third spot, either through a win in Wellington or through the top eight nations on rankings as at June this year.
The women's field does not pale in comparison with the Kiwis again taking top billing in the face of some superb Australian opposition. Beijing bound Sam Warriner (3rd) and Debbie Tanner (5th) lead the way with Olympic hopefuls Andrea Hewitt (15th), Nicky Samuels (30th) and Evelyn Williamson all suiting up for the biggest race of the year so far.
Australians Annabel Luxford and Emma Moffat will lead a large Australian contingent on Sunday. Also racing is German Anja Dittmer (11th), fresh off her win at the New Zealand sprint distance nationals at Kinloch in February.
Luxford (8th) is a four time World Cup winner and former U23 World Champion while Moffat finished fourth at the 2007 World Championships and ended 2007 ranked at two in the world behind Portugal's Vanessa Fernandez.
The elite men's and women's races will include the U23's as they too race for both national and Oceania titles. Added incentive for the New Zealanders in U23 elite and all age group races is earning spots at the 2008 World Championships in Vancouver in August this year.
Consequently the U23 entry list also resembles a who's who of the sport in the Oceania region with great battles looming between the best from New Zealand and Australia.
All races will take place on Sunday March 9 and are centred on the Wellington waterfront at Waitangi Park. Course maps and further information are available at www.triathlon.org.nz
2008 Triathlon NZ National Standard Distance Championships
1500m swim, 40km bike, 10km run
Wellington
Sunday 9th March
7.15am – Age Group Men
7.20am – Age Group Women
7.25am – Teams (All Grades)
2008 Tri NZ National Standard Distance Championships, 2008 ITU Oceania Championships
(plus round 7 of the Contact Energy My Sport Series)
Sunday 9th March
10.15am – Elite/U23 Men
10.20am – Elite/U23 Women
1.30pm Prize Giving for all Races
4 March 2008.
This weekend Wellington hosts the 2008 Oceania Standard Distance Triathlon Championships, an event that also carries points for the seventh and final round of the Contact Energy My Sport Series and National Standard Distance titles in all races and age groups.
Given such a billing and in Olympic year, it is no surprise that a stellar field of the world's best triathletes is set to descend on the capital city as individuals and national teams search for vital ranking points ahead of Beijing.
Tri NZ CEO Dave Beeche is delighted with the quality of the field for this weekend's elite races but stresses the large number of age group athletes also preparing to race.
"The elite races will be amongst the best we have ever seen in this country behind the World Cup and World Championship events we have hosted. Trans-Tasman rivalry will be at its best this weekend in both men's and women's races, especially with the lure of securing a third athlete at the Beijing Games to the winning country in men's and women's elite races.
"But we mustn't forget that the age group races earlier on the Sunday morning will see many New Zealanders putting months of training and preparation on the line as they look to fulfill their own personal goals and objectives. For some that will mean qualifying for the World Championships in Vancouver in August, for others it might simply be to finish the event in good shape. Regardless, we are in for a great weekend of triathlon."
Leading the way in the men's elite race are the best of the Kiwis, including Bevan Docherty (world number 4), Kris Gemmell (5th) and Beijing contenders Shane Reed (25th), Terenzo Bozzone (27th), Clark Ellice (95th) and James Elvery (105th).
A star studded Australian team is planning to gate crash the Kiwi party though, led by Beijing hopeful and three times World Champion Peter Robertson and former World Cup winner Craig Walton.
The Australians are sending a strong squad of athletes to Wellington and are likely to race in support of Robertson in particular as he chases an Oceania title and a large points haul to improve his and Australia's ranking ahead of Beijing.
Australia is presently outside the top eight nations on Olympic rankings and needs to improve if it is to secure three starting berths at Beijing. A win at the Oceania Championships by Robertson (or Craig Walton) will effectively ensure Australia has three on the start line in Beijing as the title carries with it automatic country inclusion at the games, provided the winning athlete hasn't already qualified.
It is possible therefore that New Zealand can guarantee three places at Beijing through winning the race on Sunday, provided that is the athlete hasn't already qualified for the Olympics. Bevan Docherty and Kris Gemmell are already confirmed for Beijing while the likes of Terenzo Bozzone, Shane Reed, James Elvery and Clark Ellice are chasing the possible third spot, either through a win in Wellington or through the top eight nations on rankings as at June this year.
The women's field does not pale in comparison with the Kiwis again taking top billing in the face of some superb Australian opposition. Beijing bound Sam Warriner (3rd) and Debbie Tanner (5th) lead the way with Olympic hopefuls Andrea Hewitt (15th), Nicky Samuels (30th) and Evelyn Williamson all suiting up for the biggest race of the year so far.
Australians Annabel Luxford and Emma Moffat will lead a large Australian contingent on Sunday. Also racing is German Anja Dittmer (11th), fresh off her win at the New Zealand sprint distance nationals at Kinloch in February.
Luxford (8th) is a four time World Cup winner and former U23 World Champion while Moffat finished fourth at the 2007 World Championships and ended 2007 ranked at two in the world behind Portugal's Vanessa Fernandez.
The elite men's and women's races will include the U23's as they too race for both national and Oceania titles. Added incentive for the New Zealanders in U23 elite and all age group races is earning spots at the 2008 World Championships in Vancouver in August this year.
Consequently the U23 entry list also resembles a who's who of the sport in the Oceania region with great battles looming between the best from New Zealand and Australia.
All races will take place on Sunday March 9 and are centred on the Wellington waterfront at Waitangi Park. Course maps and further information are available at www.triathlon.org.nz
2008 Triathlon NZ National Standard Distance Championships
1500m swim, 40km bike, 10km run
Wellington
Sunday 9th March
7.15am – Age Group Men
7.20am – Age Group Women
7.25am – Teams (All Grades)
2008 Tri NZ National Standard Distance Championships, 2008 ITU Oceania Championships
(plus round 7 of the Contact Energy My Sport Series)
Sunday 9th March
10.15am – Elite/U23 Men
10.20am – Elite/U23 Women
1.30pm Prize Giving for all Races
Sunday, 2 March 2008
Brown and Lawn show their class in Ironman New Zealand
Press Release: Ironman New Zealand.
1 March 2008.
It was a day of records, records and more records at Bonita Ironman New Zealand as Kiwi's Cameron Brown and Joanna Lawn won in contrasting styles in a day that dawned perfect for the 3.8km swim but worsened with rain and wind affecting the bike and run legs in Taupo today.
For 35 year old Brown his seventh victory at Ironman New Zealand was one of his easiest, if not in effort then in his winning margin of 6 minutes 46 seconds over Belgian Fred Van Lierde.
After his toe to toe battle with Luke Bell last year, Brown was imperious in victory today took the chance to soak up the atmosphere and interact with the Taupo crowd from a couple of kilometres from home.
"Last year I couldn't relax at all with Luke pushing so hard but this year my Manager Mark Watson said to enjoy the day as much as I could," Brown said." And it was a great day, nothing went wrong, I enjoyed a good build up and everything went smoothly on race day and this is such a great place to race. I enjoyed support the entire day, I always do. Kiwis are great at looking after their own athletes and today was no different, the support was fantastic it was nice to share in some of that excitement for the final few kilometres for a change."
While the margin was significant it was hardly a walk in the park for Brown who despite relaxing over the final few kilometres and experiencing strong winds on the bike and run legs finished just over four minutes outside his own record time.
The expected challenge from Kieran Doe didn't last beyond the halfway point of the marathon when Brown went past his fellow Kiwi. A typically brave and front running Doe held on for third but admitted he never felt comfortable once he led out of the water, describing the 3.8km in the Lake as the best part of the day.
"I struggled to find any rhythm on the bike and really it was only in the final 40km that I found my cycling legs. I knew my lead off the bike wasn't likely to be big enough but I had a crack and turned out the first ten kilometres in 39.58 but I guess Cameron must have done something like 37 minutes given the way he caught me. At one point I didn't think I would finish."
Belgian Fred Van Lierde was the one to split the Kiwis, the European Long Distance Champion was competing in his first Ironman and was delighted with his runner up performance.
"I have no experience in this race and before today i have not faced 180km in a race before. The swim was easy, I felt good on the bike and had a good feeling for the race. But on the run I struggled with cramp from the beginning and did not have any rhythm for the first ten kilometres."
Brown was quick to affirm his entry for 2009 and a tilt at an 8th NZ Ironman title, albeit he can see Doe one day having his moment in the sun.
"I'll be back; this is just a great race and a great day. Kieran will win this race one day, I am sure of that but while I am around I will keep trying to delay that day. At 35 I am far from over the hill, I am in my prime and getting stronger and stronger."
The much anticipated repeat challenge from Australian Bell never eventuated after the second seed picked up a four minute stand down penalty for drafting midway through the Avanti Bike Leg. Bell never recovered and withdrew early in the Marathon.
The women's race resembled Brown's thriller with Bell last year with Lawn having to battle nuggety Australian Kate Bevilaqua all the way, so much so that the Aucklander set a new race record despite the difficult conditions.
Lawn entered the Asics run leg of the race with her smallest ever margin over the charging Australian and knew she would be in for a battle after Bevilaqua ran her down in Tauranga at the Half Ironman in January.
"She is just so quick, has such a high cadence and never stops coming at you. I learned that at the half and since have heard from everyone how quick she is, probably the quickest Ironman runner around at the moment. But Ironman is about being tough mentally too and today I think I was tough. There was simply no way I was going to lose in those final few kilometres, not in front of this crowd, it was like I was running two feet above the ground such was the support I was getting."
Bevilaqua was chipping away at Lawn's lead with every kilometre and drew level at the 28km mark before Lawn somehow summoned the energy and will to kick clear again with 6km to go. The 34 year old said it was only upon crossing the line that she could appreciate the significance of her record 6th consecutive win in the same Ironman event.
"You can't think about that at all while you are training and preparing, there just isn't time to get caught up in that. But it hit me today and means so much to me to set a record and win for the 6th time, it is just a pity I couldn't enjoy it with Kate pushing me all the way!
"I think that was me at my toughest mentally today and while nothing will match the satisfaction of my first ever win, this was special and proved how strong I am mentally. I didn't let the loss of time to Kate affect me at any point, today was always going to come down to who was strongest over the final ten kilometres."
The intensity of the effort from both Bevilaqua and third place getter Emi Shiono (Japan) that pushed Lawn to a new record was illustrated by both needing medical attention at the end of the race, with neither able to front the post race press conference.
Long after the elite athletes completed the Bonita Ironman the smiles continued and the cheers resounded at the finish line as hundreds of finishers delighted in completing their own Ironman journey. The rain may have dampened the athletes and supporters but spirits stayed high at the finish line long into the night and the midnight cut off before the course was closed.
Bonita Ironman New Zealand - 1 March 2008, Taupo – Elite Results
Women
1 Joanna Lawn (NZL) 9:16:00 (new race record);
2 Kate Bevilaqua (AUS) 9:20:06;
3 Emi Shiono (JPN) 9:23:26;
4 Bella Comerford (SCO) 9:25:33;
5 Gina Ferguson (NZL) 9:33:29;
6 Fiona Docherty (NZL) 9:41:56;
7 Joanne Bennett (AUS) 9:47:27;
8 Emma Weitnauer (AUS) 10:01:56;
9 Sue Mellsop (NZL) 10:08:27;
10 Ely Franks (AUS) 10:10:37
Men
1 Cameron Brown (NZL) 8:24:49;
2 Freddy Van Lierde (BEL) 8:31:35;
3 Kieran Doe (NZL) 8:33:35;
4 Stephen Bayliss (UK) 8:37:03;
5 Pete Jacobs (AUS) 8:47:03;
6 Hubert Jammerl (AUT) 8:47:36;
7 Richard Ussher (NZL) 8:48:10;
8 Duncan Milne (NZL) 8:56:30;
9 Daniel Eiederreiter (AUT) 8:57:51;
10 Scott Neyedli (SCO) 9:00:17.
1 March 2008.
It was a day of records, records and more records at Bonita Ironman New Zealand as Kiwi's Cameron Brown and Joanna Lawn won in contrasting styles in a day that dawned perfect for the 3.8km swim but worsened with rain and wind affecting the bike and run legs in Taupo today.
For 35 year old Brown his seventh victory at Ironman New Zealand was one of his easiest, if not in effort then in his winning margin of 6 minutes 46 seconds over Belgian Fred Van Lierde.
After his toe to toe battle with Luke Bell last year, Brown was imperious in victory today took the chance to soak up the atmosphere and interact with the Taupo crowd from a couple of kilometres from home.
"Last year I couldn't relax at all with Luke pushing so hard but this year my Manager Mark Watson said to enjoy the day as much as I could," Brown said." And it was a great day, nothing went wrong, I enjoyed a good build up and everything went smoothly on race day and this is such a great place to race. I enjoyed support the entire day, I always do. Kiwis are great at looking after their own athletes and today was no different, the support was fantastic it was nice to share in some of that excitement for the final few kilometres for a change."
While the margin was significant it was hardly a walk in the park for Brown who despite relaxing over the final few kilometres and experiencing strong winds on the bike and run legs finished just over four minutes outside his own record time.
The expected challenge from Kieran Doe didn't last beyond the halfway point of the marathon when Brown went past his fellow Kiwi. A typically brave and front running Doe held on for third but admitted he never felt comfortable once he led out of the water, describing the 3.8km in the Lake as the best part of the day.
"I struggled to find any rhythm on the bike and really it was only in the final 40km that I found my cycling legs. I knew my lead off the bike wasn't likely to be big enough but I had a crack and turned out the first ten kilometres in 39.58 but I guess Cameron must have done something like 37 minutes given the way he caught me. At one point I didn't think I would finish."
Belgian Fred Van Lierde was the one to split the Kiwis, the European Long Distance Champion was competing in his first Ironman and was delighted with his runner up performance.
"I have no experience in this race and before today i have not faced 180km in a race before. The swim was easy, I felt good on the bike and had a good feeling for the race. But on the run I struggled with cramp from the beginning and did not have any rhythm for the first ten kilometres."
Brown was quick to affirm his entry for 2009 and a tilt at an 8th NZ Ironman title, albeit he can see Doe one day having his moment in the sun.
"I'll be back; this is just a great race and a great day. Kieran will win this race one day, I am sure of that but while I am around I will keep trying to delay that day. At 35 I am far from over the hill, I am in my prime and getting stronger and stronger."
The much anticipated repeat challenge from Australian Bell never eventuated after the second seed picked up a four minute stand down penalty for drafting midway through the Avanti Bike Leg. Bell never recovered and withdrew early in the Marathon.
The women's race resembled Brown's thriller with Bell last year with Lawn having to battle nuggety Australian Kate Bevilaqua all the way, so much so that the Aucklander set a new race record despite the difficult conditions.
Lawn entered the Asics run leg of the race with her smallest ever margin over the charging Australian and knew she would be in for a battle after Bevilaqua ran her down in Tauranga at the Half Ironman in January.
"She is just so quick, has such a high cadence and never stops coming at you. I learned that at the half and since have heard from everyone how quick she is, probably the quickest Ironman runner around at the moment. But Ironman is about being tough mentally too and today I think I was tough. There was simply no way I was going to lose in those final few kilometres, not in front of this crowd, it was like I was running two feet above the ground such was the support I was getting."
Bevilaqua was chipping away at Lawn's lead with every kilometre and drew level at the 28km mark before Lawn somehow summoned the energy and will to kick clear again with 6km to go. The 34 year old said it was only upon crossing the line that she could appreciate the significance of her record 6th consecutive win in the same Ironman event.
"You can't think about that at all while you are training and preparing, there just isn't time to get caught up in that. But it hit me today and means so much to me to set a record and win for the 6th time, it is just a pity I couldn't enjoy it with Kate pushing me all the way!
"I think that was me at my toughest mentally today and while nothing will match the satisfaction of my first ever win, this was special and proved how strong I am mentally. I didn't let the loss of time to Kate affect me at any point, today was always going to come down to who was strongest over the final ten kilometres."
The intensity of the effort from both Bevilaqua and third place getter Emi Shiono (Japan) that pushed Lawn to a new record was illustrated by both needing medical attention at the end of the race, with neither able to front the post race press conference.
Long after the elite athletes completed the Bonita Ironman the smiles continued and the cheers resounded at the finish line as hundreds of finishers delighted in completing their own Ironman journey. The rain may have dampened the athletes and supporters but spirits stayed high at the finish line long into the night and the midnight cut off before the course was closed.
Bonita Ironman New Zealand - 1 March 2008, Taupo – Elite Results
Women
1 Joanna Lawn (NZL) 9:16:00 (new race record);
2 Kate Bevilaqua (AUS) 9:20:06;
3 Emi Shiono (JPN) 9:23:26;
4 Bella Comerford (SCO) 9:25:33;
5 Gina Ferguson (NZL) 9:33:29;
6 Fiona Docherty (NZL) 9:41:56;
7 Joanne Bennett (AUS) 9:47:27;
8 Emma Weitnauer (AUS) 10:01:56;
9 Sue Mellsop (NZL) 10:08:27;
10 Ely Franks (AUS) 10:10:37
Men
1 Cameron Brown (NZL) 8:24:49;
2 Freddy Van Lierde (BEL) 8:31:35;
3 Kieran Doe (NZL) 8:33:35;
4 Stephen Bayliss (UK) 8:37:03;
5 Pete Jacobs (AUS) 8:47:03;
6 Hubert Jammerl (AUT) 8:47:36;
7 Richard Ussher (NZL) 8:48:10;
8 Duncan Milne (NZL) 8:56:30;
9 Daniel Eiederreiter (AUT) 8:57:51;
10 Scott Neyedli (SCO) 9:00:17.
Saturday, 1 March 2008
Ironman Taupo, the calm before the storm
It's 4.30am and the hopes and dreams of 1100 athletes begin to waken with the town. Its eerily quiet and it looks like New Zealand's premier triathlon event will get underway as planned before the forecasted bad weather hits.
Strong northerlies and persistent rain are expected to develop throughout the day. However as this means the wind will be coming directly off the shore it should not affect the swim leg too much. Athletes will have a strengthening headwind on the way out on each lap of the bike, and a tailwind on return. For some this could work in their favour.
Another storm is likely to be upfront as the two top seeds and perennial defending champions have their work cut out for them. In recent years it has become apparent that it is foolish to bet against Jo Lawn and Cameron Brown. But this year I am going to stick my neck out, particularly in Lawn's case.
Gina Ferguson has come on in leaps and bounds with two wins over the distance in her first year. She demolished the small field and the record in Challenge Wanaka. What made this really impressive however was that this was only a few weeks after racing to second and beating the old record in Ironman Western Australia, she didn't taper for the race, she was camping in the local campground, it was 35 deg C for most of the day, and then she confides that she was backing off to save herself.
Clearly Lawn is the better athlete on a fast flat course, but should the conditions turn sour, I'd be putting my money on Ferguson to lead out the water, almost hold off on the bike, and storm through on the run.
The men's race is less clear cut. Brown must still be everyone's favourite, but second seed Luke Bell is likely to follow Kieran Doe off the bike. One of them could hold Brown off till very late in the day when anything can happen. Doe is spectacular if unpredictable, and if he comes off he will be hard to beat.
And then there is Richard Ussher, winner of the Coast to coast. Clearly this will not be his year as he finds his feet in the deep water. A solid top five finish from him would not surprise me.
Strong northerlies and persistent rain are expected to develop throughout the day. However as this means the wind will be coming directly off the shore it should not affect the swim leg too much. Athletes will have a strengthening headwind on the way out on each lap of the bike, and a tailwind on return. For some this could work in their favour.
Another storm is likely to be upfront as the two top seeds and perennial defending champions have their work cut out for them. In recent years it has become apparent that it is foolish to bet against Jo Lawn and Cameron Brown. But this year I am going to stick my neck out, particularly in Lawn's case.
Gina Ferguson has come on in leaps and bounds with two wins over the distance in her first year. She demolished the small field and the record in Challenge Wanaka. What made this really impressive however was that this was only a few weeks after racing to second and beating the old record in Ironman Western Australia, she didn't taper for the race, she was camping in the local campground, it was 35 deg C for most of the day, and then she confides that she was backing off to save herself.
Clearly Lawn is the better athlete on a fast flat course, but should the conditions turn sour, I'd be putting my money on Ferguson to lead out the water, almost hold off on the bike, and storm through on the run.
The men's race is less clear cut. Brown must still be everyone's favourite, but second seed Luke Bell is likely to follow Kieran Doe off the bike. One of them could hold Brown off till very late in the day when anything can happen. Doe is spectacular if unpredictable, and if he comes off he will be hard to beat.
And then there is Richard Ussher, winner of the Coast to coast. Clearly this will not be his year as he finds his feet in the deep water. A solid top five finish from him would not surprise me.
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