By Kent Gray/Triathlon.kiwi
The great outdoors is, well, great. But don’t discount an indoor future for swim, bike and run, not after the success of the inaugural Indoor Triathlon World Cup at stunning Arena Stade Couvert in Lievin over the weekend.
Germany’s Laura Lindemann emerged victorious in the women’s event after a thrilling final sprint to edge out Georgia Taylor-Brown (GBR) and Rio 2016 Olympic gold medalist Gwen Jorgensen (USA). But beyond the star studded podium, it was the unique super sprint format, and the engaged crowds, that stole the show in northern France.
Fast-paced heats, semifinals, and finals, with athletes battling it out over a 150m swim, 3km bike ride, and 1km run, wowed the packed indoor stadium who had ringside seats to roar on the athletes who biked and ran on a track surrounding a purpose built pool.
Stars Embrace the Challenge
“It was really hard, I think it was one of the toughest races I’ve ever done I think,” said Lindemann, still catching her breath after the close win. “I tried to follow and have some energy for the last metres but it really was all out from the beginning.” The demanding format, with heats, semis, and finals all within a short timeframe, pushed the athletes to their limits.
Taylor-Brown: Exciting But Demanding
“I’m really happy with today,” admitted Taylor-Brown after making the most of an unexpected start following the abandonment of WTCS Abu Dhabi.
“I’m not feeling peak run fitness yet, but this was definitely exciting.”
The fast-paced heats proved to be a challenge, forcing the comeback Brit to adjust her strategy. “The plan was to save energy, but the atmosphere is electric here! I ended up pushing harder than intended in the heats and semis. On top of that, the dry air was rough on my throat – everyone faced it though. The finals were brutal – close quarters on the bike and a super fast run.”
Jorgensen: Special and Fun, Let’s See More!
Gwen Jorgensen also came to Lievin with a competitive spirit.
“This was supposed to be my Abu Dhabi,” she revealed, referencing the cancelled WTCS season opener in the UAE capital.
“Of course, I wanted the win, but Laura and Georgia were phenomenal. The crowd energy was incredible, so many people! This format is exciting and special – I’d love to see more of it.”
