World Champs - London

The ITU WTS World Championships were held in London. I really wanted to visit London so I was really excited to be able to participate. We were lucky enough to fly straight to London without a transfer. We got there safe and sound and after good night’s sleep we were ready for a few days of normal routine before the race.

On race day the nerves were high. I just came off a relatively good 5150 in BelaBela, so I was hoping to continue on the good form. The race was also emotional, because the Olympics were held here just over a year ago and it was magic to race at the same venue. I had a good start in the swim, I started on the side so I did not get bunched in form both sides. There was a downside to this too; I was forced wide around the turn buoys. I worked hard form there till the end of the swim lap and gained a few places. The second lap was a lot better and I found my swimming rhythm. I exited the water in about the middle of the field.

The lead pack had about 21 athletes and the second pack had about 5. I just missed the second pack but was in front of the 3rd pack. I waited for them on the cycle and then we worked hard to get up to the 2nd pack. The first 3 laps were raced at an incredible fast pace, unfortunately I lost both my water bottles during the first 2 laps…. After we caught the 2nd pack I sat in the group saving energy and working every now and then. We finished the cycle leg at about 35s behind the front pack. It was all down to the run now. I knew this was my week point, because I had a nasty injury and missed a lot of running the past few months.

I went out and gave it everything I had in the run. During the last lap I faded a bit, which could be as a result of the injury and the lack of water on the cycle. I finished in 37th position. I am happy with the result and I was glad I had the opportunity and privilege to race. I was hoping for better but on the day that’s all that I could do.

Thanks to everyone who made it possible for me to be able to race World Champs. Also thank you for everybody who has supported me during my years in triathlon. I will be taking a break from training and start again in October. Racing will start in November with the African Champs 5150.

Until then

Cheers

Rudolf