Another win for Ian, however he did have to dig deep having being ill prior to the race…
Lytham St Annes Triathlon is the 2nd of 3 races in the Fylde Tri-ology Series. The race is based over a sprint distance of 400m swim, 20km cycle and a 5.4km run and with over 500 athletes competing, the race was well attended. The event was split into waves so this literally was a time-trial to the finish in the hope that nobody would be faster.
The week leading into the race I had contracted the dreaded ‘man flu’ and spent Thursday – Saturday in bed. When Sunday arrived I was 50-50 about racing due to feeling less than 100%, but I persevered.
Surprised at my result is an understatement!!!!
I exited the swim in a more respectable 5:32 and sprinted for T1 where I mounted the bike in the lead (from my wave). Within the first few hundred metres I was locked into a battle with the second placed athlete, where we attacked each other again and again to gain an advantage. After completing the 20km in under 31minutes, I was pleased to be leading into T2, with a speedy dismount from the bike.
With a slightly longer run of 5.4km, I hoped that my tight chest would allow me to breathe as my heart rate went up. My legs felt fine, but my breathing was laboured and when I was caught and passed at around the half way point, I though that that was the end of a victory for TORQ.
However…………by this stage I had other plans, I dug deep and found that the leader was coming back to me with just under 1km to go. I persevered, took the lead and put every ounce of effort into that final 200m where I was able to open up a lead of 8 seconds, finishing in 55 minutes and 37 seconds.
I am absolutely delighted with this win beating some quality athletes, after a less than ideal run into the event.
My next outing in will be an aquathlon next weekend and then Coniston Standard Distance triathlon on June 2nd.’
Many thanks to our fantastic sponsors:
www.wilier.it – Triathlon Frames
www.ffwdwheels.com – Aero Wheels
www.ritcheylogic.com – Aerobars, Saddles and Finishing Kit
www.cycleops.com – Power Meters
www.racezone3.com – Wetsuits
www.limarhelmets.com – Helmets & Glasses
www.lakecycling.co.uk – Cycling Footwear
www.jagwireusa.com – Cables & Housing
www.scott-sports.com – Running Footwear
www.shimano.com – Groupsets
www.triathlonspecific.com/Sable/Sable.html – Swim Goggles (Sable Water Optic)
www.max-mediagroup.co.uk – Team PR
www.amphibia-sport.com – Transition Bags
www.schwalbe.com – Tyres
www.lezyne.com – Pumps, Tools and Bottle Cages
www.champ-sys.com – Custom Trisuits and Cycle Wear
