TORQ’s very talented super veteran again beat a lot of younger triathletes at Ludlow in a sprint competition, this despite the fact that his natural focus is on the longer distances (he’s only just completed Ironman Wales)…

After what has seemed to be a very long race season, it was time for my last triathlon of the year. Ludlow sprint triathlon was where it all began 10 years ago when I did my first triathlon. 2 weeks after a tough Ironman Wales, this would be a test to see if I had anything left in my legs. I was in one of the later waves of the 400m pool swim and after a good splash, was quickly out of T1 and onto the Wilier and the undulating 16 mile bike leg was underway.  

After overtaking the first 2 people from my wave, I was out ahead. Initially there were no other people to chase on the bike leg, so pacing was difficult. I kept on having to check my heart rate to try and maintain a consistent effort until I eventually started to catch people from the previous wave. Heading back was more difficult into a strong south westerly wind and I was caught by another competitor from my wave, who spurred me on to push harder! I was quickly into T2 and then onto the out and back 4 mile run.

There were a lot of people still on the run course, which helped with pacing and after the turn around point. I tried to up the pace for the last 2 miles, but my legs felt very heavy post Ironman Wales. It was a relief to cross the finish line to win my age group and my 9th triathlon of the year. It is now a case of having a couple of weeks off before starting to plan for next season.

With thanks to our 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
www.champ-sys.com – Custom Trisuits and Cycle Wear