RESULT: 1st OVERALL
The final Time Freight Multi-X event came in at a perfect time for me, being just 2 weeks before I race World XTERRA Champs in Maui. It would be a great way for me to gauge my form leading into the big race and the fact that the temperature was around 36 degrees Celsius made it even better.
The main race was set as an ultra format being a 7.5km run, 38km MTB and finishing with a 5km run. This was longer than the usual sprint distance, which would lead to some interesting racing.
My aim for the race was to hold back on the first run and push harder on the bike and final run, however as the gun went the racing mentality kicked in and I decided to go out fairly hard with Gareth Harrington. I felt comfortable on the first run and was thoroughly enjoying my Saucony Kinvaras on the technical terrain. I came off the run leading the Multi-X event and began my favoured leg, the bike.
I made a rather crucial error however and decided to ride with only one bottle of PeptoSport not taking into account the intense heat and lack of a cooling wind. I immediately rationed myself and only took small sips throughout the bike. I also held myself back keeping my heart rate below 85% to avoid dehydration and any possible damage towards my weeks ahead. Even with this slightly subdued pace I wasn’t being caught and enjoyed the scenic views Albert Falls has to offer. Nic Floros put together a truly spectacular bike course and I enjoyed every second of it.
Onto the final run I opted for the lighter Saucony Type A3’s as it was a shorter and less technical route. It was great being out there alone getting to test myself up the climbs and monitoring my pace on my Garmin as I went. My legs felt really good on the final run and I was pleased with how my race went. I claimed the win in a time of 2h28:31 with Gareth Harrington fighting Dehydration and then over hydration to claim 2nd in 2h43:14 and Bryce Jackson claiming a well deserved 3rd in 2h44:10
Its been a crazy few days since the race with last minute meetings and packing but I am finally all packed and ready for the long haul flight out to Maui for what Im sure is going to be an experience of a lifetime. I have to say a quick thank you to the sponsors that have made this trip possible. Always a huge thank you to Richard from THULE who has backed me in every way possible this year and for providing me with my amazing luggage for the trip. To Glynn from Saucony for all the support and my 2 fantastic shoe options for Maui, the Kinvaras and Peregrines. To PeptoSport for powering me at Worlds. Obviously a big thanks to POWASOL for everything they do, truly a great brand who put a lot into our sport. Zululand Cycles have also been a huge help to me and is basically my second home. Compressport are a new addition and absolutely perfect timing as I look forward to using the compression products during the flight and races. And finally BeeWise for their multi-purpose Balms and chamois cream.
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