Aussie Ferris steals show in Asian Triathlon Cup

PETALING JAYA: Australian Joshua Ferris stole the show in the men’s elite category of the Asian Triathlon Cup (ATC) 2022 as he finished first at the Silverlake Village Outlet, Ipoh on Saturday.

Despite not being the favourite, the 21-year-old ace who is currently ranked 35th in Asia put on a consistent and strong performance in all three disciplines – swimming (750m,) cycling (20km) and running (5km).

He is also the only one who dipped below 54 minutes as he finished in 53:53.

Hong Kong duo Wong Tsz and Yu Shing Him came second and third in 54:18 and 54:30 respectively.

“It was a very challenging and thrilling race starting right from the very first swimming discipline,” said Ferris.

“Every triathlete did their utmost best to get into the momentum once they jumped into the lake.

“As for me, I was feeling excited too but I didn’t want to push too hard in the beginning as I need to retain my energy for two more other disciplines. So, I just maintained my pace and make sure I stay on course with the front pack.

“Once we reach the second discipline (cycling) and the final stage which is running, I pushed up my game and increase my tempo. I tried to be in the lead until the very end despite the challenges from other triathletes,” said Ferris.

“I’m eager to be back here again if the ATC is held in Malaysia next year. The challenges we face here are different from other countries, especially the running discipline that we go through – running in between the buildings.”

Meanwhile, in the women elite, Celine Kaiser from Germany won the race in 1:00.52 while New Zealand’s Olivia Thornbury secured second place and Japanese Manami Hayashi came in third.