Article by: Triathlon New Zealand Inc. (Tri NZ)
Around 1,360 pro and age group athletes lined up at the SunSmart Ironman Western Australia, taking on the 3.8km swim, 180km bike and 42.2km run.
The women’s title went to a relative newcomer on the Australian scene, New Zealand’s Michelle Bremer, who won the race in outstanding style with Michelle Mitchell second and Carrie Lester third.
The top five off the bike were Bremer, Elly Franks, Kate Bevilaqua, Michelle Mitchell and Carrie Lester. The five of them headed out on the run as the crowds began to build around the town centre with plenty of action to watch.
With four laps of the run leg, spectators were guaranteed great viewing. Bremer stormed through the run to take the women’s race in 9:25:38.
She was excited with the result.
“I’m overwhelmed with how the race went. I knew it was going to be a tough race with a strong field lining up, and especially with me going into the unknown being my first ironman distance race. I have had a solid four month build up into the event, so felt in strong form heading in.
“The support from the crowd was amazing and really helped to bring me home over the last few kilometres. Overall it was an amazing experience and I’m still taking in the moment.
“I’m looking forward to heading home to Mount Maunganui now to prepare for the Tauranga Half in the New Year.”
Timo Bracht from Germany took the men’s title, followed by youngster Clayton Fettell, while third place went to course record holder Jason Shortis.
SunSmart Iroman Western Australia
Pro Women
1.Michelle Bremer 09:25:38
2.Michelle Mitchell 09:28:07
3.Carrie Lester 09:32:44
4.Elly Franks 09:37:51
5.Hilary Biscay 09:39:41
Pro Men
1.Timo Bracht 08:12:39
2.Clayton Fettell 08:19:02
3.Jason Shortis 08:27:31
4.Josh Rix 08:30:59
5.Aaron Farlow 08:34:09
Michelle Bremer 