DANIELA Ryf leads the Bahrain Endurance 13 charge at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship to be held on Sunday.
The defending champion seeks to extend her winning streak and become the first athlete to claim three consecutive 70.3 world championship victories over three different courses.
With this year’s race to be held in Sunshine Coast, Australia, Ryf flew in two weeks early to acclimatise.
“Mooloolaba is a special race for me, as I raced the World Cup three times and have some great memories,” she said, referring to the long-running ITU event hosted there.
“I decided to come early to make the best preparation I can and keep up the work also leading into Kona.
“It will be a tough race, where tired legs need to suck it up with these hills, as even the run will be tough. I did everything I could to be ready for this challenge and I’m excited to race in front of the Aussie crowd.”
Compatriot
Caroline Steffen is based in Mooloolaba and knows the course better than anyone.
“To have the world championship in my training backyard is just great. I hope I can count on the home advantage. Also I have done well in previous years on this course, which gives me some confidence, too,” she said.
Of the previous times Steffen has raced her compatriot she has successfully managed to hold her own, most recently coming in second at the Bahrain and Dubai Ironman 70.3’s. She also owns a two-year podium streak over the 70.3 distance.
With Jan Frodeno opting out of defending here, the field is wide open for a new men’s champion to be crowned.
Terenzo Bozzone seeks to reclaim the world championship title he won in 2008. Like Steffen, he has not been off a 70.3 podium in two years.
“I love racing in Mooloolaba. It brings back so many great memories of my ITU days. This is a true triathlete’s course and I’m excited to be back here again. The championship races are always exciting and I can’t wait to get out there on Sunday and mix it up,” the Kiwi said.