Veteran Ueda shines in the heat
IT WAS fourth time lucky for diminutive Japanese triathele, Ai Ueda, as she thrived in tough conditions to win the women’s elite race at the Discovery Triathon World Cup Cape Town at Green Point yesterday.
The 35-year-old veteran upset her young opponents, outrunning former American track star, Summer Rappaport, in the final 2km to clinch a seven second victory.
“I just love coming to Cape Town,” Ueda admitted. “Yes, the conditions were tough out there – hot and windy – but I think Japanese women are stronger when it’s harder. I’m delighted to have won after making the podium in third position two years ago and after a difficult season last year.
“I knew that Summer had a fast finish with her track background, so I knew I had to break her before the finish. So I made my move at the aid station, 2km from the finish, and managed to hold her off.
“With the Olympics at home in Tokyo, this win will give me plenty of confidence in my build-up and attempt to make the Japanese team.”
Americans took two thirds of the podium, with 22-year old American Tamara Gorman surprising to finish clear of several more favoured triathletes in third position.
South Africa’s Gillian Sanders finished in an impressive fifth.
“I’m very happy with the start to the season,” said Sanders.