Champion’s out to add more glory to season
DEFENDING ironman champion Ali Day is hoping to continue his stellar season at the Queensland championships with back-to-back wins – a feat that has only been accomplished by three men in the history of the state titles.
Day, the reigning Coolangatta Gold champion and NutriTODAY Grain Ironman Series winner, as well as current ironman world titleholder, actually credits his success with a less gruelling training schedule.
“It’s been the best year I’ve ever had. I think I’ve had a way better balance this year – knowing how hard to train but when to have days off,” he said.
“A lot of the work was done really early in the pre-season which has benefited me well and allows me to ease off now if I need a break. Consistency has been key.
“It really is the key to training and provides a great foundation to spring off.”
Day admitted the year had been hectic so he and Surfers Paradise coach Zayne Hamill regularly made calls to pull back from training.
“I had wanted to do the Coolangatta Gold because I love that event. But then I backed up and did the first round of the Nutri-Grain series before heading down to Adelaide for the world ironman title,” he said.
“I’ve been fortunate in that I’ve been well supported by my team and I’m excited for the weekend ahead.
“It’s a good opportunity to be a part of history. States are such a good opportunity for a trial run ahead of Aussies.
“It will be great to be racing in our backyard over the next couple of weeks.”
Day predicted Caine and Shannon Eckstein, Matt Poole Ben Carberry and Matt Bevilacqua would pose his main threats in the ironman.