Fourth time lucky for Ueda

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 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 two kilometres 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.”

American Tamara Gorman surprising finished 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. |

Men’s Elite: 1 Alex Yee (GB) 52:04; 2 Tony Smoragiewicz (USA) 52:19; 3 Joao Silva (Port) 52:20