Friday, 21 January 2011 00:00
Pro athletes speculate at IMBC PRO Press Conference
The Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa pro press conference on Friday 21 January 2011 at the Kennaway Hotel, East London saw professional athletes and organisers expressing their views about the race.
The women’s PRO field is world-class.
The name on everyone’s lips this year is Britain’s Jodie Swallow. The reigning Ironman 70.3 world champion feels that her stay in South Africa has been good, living and training with fellow Team TBB teammate, James Cunnama. Swallow comes from a swimming background and is relishing the challenge indicating that under the toughest conditions the best athlete will come out on top.
Crowd favourite, Lucie Zelenkova (CZE) was in upbeat mood stating that she felt good this year. She noted that she would up against some tough opposition in the other female PROs. Germany’s Sonja Tajsich is racing in her first Ironman 70.3 race after winning Ironman South Africa and Ironman Regensburg in 2010. “I wanted to try a different strategy and start my season earlier. I want to work more on my power and go as hard as possible. I think it was a good decision to race here,” said Tajsich.
Defending champion Mari Rabie will be aiming to do a bit of the same as last year when she won after a blistering run. “I just want to go out there and have a good race,” said Rabie.
Last year’s third placed Ironman South Africa finisher, Tine Deckers always believes in tough races indicating that a tough race always suits her better. She will undoubtedly be looking to make an impression on this star studded women’s line up.
This year’s field saw an interesting toss-up between some strong local flavour and established internationals. South Africa’s James Cunnama after finishing 2nd last year, had an impressive 2010. “Being part of Team TBB and under the coaching of Brett Sutton has shown results,” said Cunnama. He once again affirmed his belief that the Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa is on par with international standards. This is all the more impressive considering that Cunnama spent large parts of 2010 racing overseas. “Having the home crowd on my side makes the event very special,” added Cunnama.
Cunnama will be facing strong competition from Richie Cunningham (AUS) who said that he heard positive things about the race from 2010 winner, Fraser Cartmell. Cunningham is a seasoned professional having notched up a 5th place at the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Clearwater and two previous 3rd place finishes.
Belgian duo of Bert Jammaer and Frederik van Lierde will both be aiming to do well in South African conditions. Van Lierde, who competed at IMBC in 2009 finishing 2nd, did some training in Spain due to the cold European winter conditions. Hungary’s Csoke Balasz is looking forward to a tough race.
The Spec-Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa is once again expected to deliver all the excitement and drama that spectators have become accustomed to in previous years. Judging by the talented PRO field and the individual battles that may emerge on Race Day, this year’s race will be truly extraordinary.
Spec –Savers Ironman 70.3 South Africa
23 January 2011
1.9km SWIM | 90km BIKE | 21.1km RUN
50 qualifying slots for the 2011 Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Las Vegas, Nevada
www.ironman703.co.za
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