James Gilfillan (Team Feat) was a clear winner of the Ringwood Triathlon after stamping his authority on the race on the challenging cycle leg through the New Forest. Lee Harper (Oxford University Tri Club) led by 32 secs after the 600 metre swim at Ringwood Leisure centre, the fastest swim split on the day. However he was quickly overhauled by Gilfillan, who recorded 1.09.37 for the 28 mile circuit, the 4 minutes conceded by Harper would cost him the race. Will Newbury (Primera-TBC) also passed the university man after exiting the pool in 4th place but like everyone else, he was losing time to the flying Gilfillan.
Coming into T2, Gilfillan was able to take his time such was his lead and with the sun now high in the sky, he could afford to cruise on the run with 34.27.
Meanwhile the race was on behind Gilfillan as Harper stormed round the 6 mile run course, recording 32.47 and just catching Newbury at the end, who also ran strongly with 34.34.
Lizzy Hutson (off-Camber) was equally impressive in the ladies race winning in 2.11.28 from Mary Campbell (Chichester Westgate Tri) 2.15.10. A challenge may have come from Helen Dyke (Exeter Tr) who was running strongly but took a wrong turn on the run so had to settle for 3rd.
Race winner Gilfillan is racing in Mallorca next weekend but his main focus this season will be the Race across America.(RAAM). a 3000 mile jaunt from the California to the East Coast, James will be part of a four man relay team.
Race organiser, Michelle Noble should be congratulated for all the hard work in putting on this event. First ran in the early nineties, its a great early season test and the results triathlon team were rewarded with some lovely spring weather for what will hopefully become a regular fixture on the triathlon calender.
No comments:
Post a Comment