A bike crash six months prior to CHALLENGEMIAMI in March this year saw Kastelein hospitalised, with long road back to competing at the top level of triathlon.

But the Australian, ranked at #10 for Team Internationals ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, completed a remarkable recovery with an eighth-place finish in the South-East Florida race.

After his admirable performance in the USA, Kastelein’s attentions then turned to CHALLENGEGRANCANARIA.

And it was on the volcanic island that his epic comeback was crowned with a medal, as he came home in 3rd place, just over a minute behind Europe #1 Jan Frodeno and only 12 seconds off Europe #17 Pablo Dapena Gonzalez.

Kastelein made an excellent start to his race in Gran Canaria, clocking the fourth fastest time of any athlete during the swim as he trailed frontrunners by just five seconds.

He remained in touch with the leaders following a solid bike leg in sweltering conditions, but it was his pace on the run that earned him a spot on the podium.

Kastelein was the quickest athlete over the 21.1km course, shaving six seconds off Frodeno’s time, who is renowned as one of the strongest runners in triathlon.

“Nothing sweeter than a hard-fought race!” he wrote on social media. “3rd place and some ugly running towards the end there.

“And very proud to be a part of this little team we have, because without all of them, days like this wouldn’t be possible – so thank you!”

Kastelein’s hopes of earning a place on Team International for the Collins Cup remain very much alive following his performance in Gran Canaria, and he will look to build on that display ahead of the event in August.

Here are Nick’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Zoggs
Wetsuit: Deboer Fjord 1.0
Speedsuit: Deboer Tsunami
Trisuit: Ryzon Verge

Bike

Bike frame: Canyon Speedmax CF SLX
Frame size: Small
Front wheel: Zipp 858
Rear wheel: Zipp Super 9
Tyres: Continental GP 5000
Component Groupset: SRAM AXS
Computer: Wahoo Elemnt Bolt
Power meter: Quarq Dzero
Crank Length: 170mm
Helmet: Oakley Aro 7
Cycling Shoes: Bont Zero+
Saddle: Gebiomized Stride
Hydration System: Canyon

Run

Shoes: Nike Alphafly
Eyewear: Oakley
Headwear: Ryzon

The post Weapon of Choice || Nick Kastelein appeared first on PTO.

Ranked #1 for Team USA ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, Long picked up third in Texas in April before coming home in second at the North American Championships in St.George.

A typically stellar performance on the bike in Texas put the 25-year-old in contention for victory alongside International #1 Lionel Sanders and USA #4 Ben Kanute.

An impeccable run from Sanders saw him claim victory, while Long was edged out by Kanute by just six seconds despite a monumental effort.

Long then improved on that result with a second-place finish in St.George, in a race that produced an enthralling battle on the final leg.

Up against one of the strongest runners in triathlon in Sanders once again, Long fought his Canadian rival right up to the finish line in another impressive display.

A captivating final few kilometres saw the two athletes run shoulder-to-shoulder, with Sanders eventually finishing just six seconds clear of Long to take the win.

Long, however, was delighted with his overall performance, as he combined his customary rapid cycling display with a strong swim and run to push one of the sport’s most elite performers to the limit.

“Wow what an absolute day,” he wrote on social media after the race. “Speechless but also incredibly grateful.

“I did everything I could and played the tactics brilliantly with my strengths and weaknesses. I had a good swim too.

“Good enough for a sprint finish with Lionel. Big congrats to @lsanderstri. The sport of triathlon is moving into the limelight and the drama and competition is amazing.”

Long now has his sights set on IRONMAN Tulsa, as he looks to reaffirm his chances of making the USA team for August’s Collins Cup with another eye-catching showing.

Check out Sam’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Michael Phelps Xceed
Wetsuit: Michael Phelps Phantom
Speedsuit: Phantom Speedsuit
Trisuit: Wattie INK Contender
Sports Watch: Wahoo Rival

Bike

Bike frame: Argon18 E-119 Tri+
Frame size: XL
Aerobars: 51 Speedshop
Front Wheel: ENVE SES 7-8
Rear Wheel: ENVE SES Disc
Tyres: ENVE SES, Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura ace
Power meter: Shimano Dura ace
Head unit: Wahoo Elemnt
Crank Length: 172.5mm
Helmet: Rudy Project The Wing
Cycling Shoes: Shimano RC-9
Saddle: Prototype
Gearing: 58/46, 11-28

Run

Shoes: Nike Next%
Eyewear: Rudy Project Propulse

The post Weapon of Choice || Sam Long appeared first on PTO.

Ranked as Team Internationals #1 ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, Teresa is up there with the very best triathletes in the world, but she has unfortunately been sidelined in recent months.

She was in great form back in January when her enthralling rivalry with Internationals #6 Hannah Wells continued at Port of Tauranga Half.

Hannah had come out on top when the pair met at the PTO-supported Rotorua Suffer half-distance at the end of last year, crossing the line 1:08 clear.

But Adam proved her pedigree once again in her first race of 2021, claiming an impressive victory at Tauranga as she reaffirmed her status as one of New Zealand’s leading triathletes.

Teresa clocked a final time of 3:57:01 for the race, finishing almost five minutes clear of her compatriot in a convincing display.

“Very happy to come away with the win,” she wrote on social media after the race. “Could not have done it without the support of @danfurminger. Bike fitter, bike mechanic and so much more.

“Big thank you mum and dad! Huge thanks to my team @pewagracingteam for all their support and awesome kit.”

Adam’s Tauranga title was the most recent in a long list of accolades she has racked up during her time in professional triathlon, including a string of IRONMAN wins and a victory at the 2020 New Zealand National Time Trial Championships.

She will now aim to get her 2021 back on track, as she is expected to play a key role in August’s Collins Cup.

Check out Teresa’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Speedo Opal
Wetsuit: Sailfish Ultimate IPS Plus
Speedsuit: Sailfish Rebel Pro
Trisuit: Castelli PR Speedsuit
Sports Watch: Garmin 945

Bike

Bike frame: Storck Aero 3
Frame size: XS
Aerobars: Sync Ergonomic Project 0.2
Front wheel: Xentis Mark 3
Rear wheel: Xentis Blade
Tyres: Schwalbe Pro One
Component Groupset: Shimano Ultegra R8050 Di2
Gearing: 53/39, 11-25
Computer: Garmin Edge 510
Power meter: Favero Assioma Duo
Crank Length: 150mm
Helmet: Giro Aerohead
Cycling Shoes: Giro Empire ACC
Saddle: ISM PS 2.0
Hydration System: Elite Crono CX

Run

Shoes: Asics DS Trainer
Eyewear: Oakley Radar

The post Weapon of Choice || Teresa Adam appeared first on PTO.

Ranked at #12 for Team Europe ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, Ditlev is already well known for his tremendous ability on the bike. But he has made a real effort to enhance his speed in the other disciplines.

The Dane exited the waters of Sand Hollow Reservoir in St. George amongst the leading pack, clocking a 23:24 for the 1.9km leg, just 16 seconds behind leader Sam Appleton.

Ditlev then took to the bike and was frighteningly quick as ever, battling hard with USA #1 Rudy von Berg before dropping the American in the closing stages of the leg.

Ditlev recorded the fastest split of any athlete over the 90km leg, stopping the clock at 2:01:25, just over 20 seconds quicker than next best Paul Ruttmann.

Team Internationals #1 Lionel Sanders and Team USA #5 Sam Long produced incredible displays on the run as they claimed first and second overall, but Ditlev was rightly proud of the effort which took him to third.

He held off the resurgent von Berg over the final kilometres as he crossed the line 17 seconds clear of his rival in a total time of 3:45:10.

“This is probably the most epic thing I’ve ever experienced!” he wrote on social media after the race.

“3rd place at @ironmantri 70.3 St George North American Championships and what a battle out there on a tough and honest course.

“Stuck to the game plan all way through and executed to the absolute best of my ability on all three disciplines. Super stoked and honored to share the podium with @lsanderstri and @samgolong.”

Ditlev will look to continue his development over the coming months with the goal of securing a place on Team Europe for the Collins Cup in August.

Here are his ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Magic5
Wetsuit: Sailfish Ultimate IPS Plus
Trisuit: FUSION SLi High Speed Suit
Sports Watch: Garmin 945

Bike

Bike frame: FELT IA FRD
Frame size: L
Aerobars: Custom
Front Wheel: FastForward Falcon Two Spoke
Rear Wheel: FastForward Disc
Tyres: Veloflex Record 23mm
Component Groupset: SRAM Red eTap
Power meter: Quarq dZero
Head unit: Garmin 520 plus
Crank Length: 172.5mm
Helmet: Uvex Race 8
Cycling Shoes: Giro Empire SLX
Saddle: Fizik Mistica
Gearing: 60, 11-28

Run

Shoes: Nike Vaporfly Next%
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin HRM Tri
Eyewear: Oakley
Headwear: Sailfish Cap

The post Weapon of Choice || Magnus Elbæk Ditlev appeared first on PTO.

The Physiotherapist Officer with the British Army had enjoyed previous success on the Gran Canaria course, having won an Age Group race there in 2019.

Katrina headed out of the water in eighth place during the 2021 event in a time of 29:46 – more than 2:30 behind eventual winner Nicola Spirig.

The British athlete soon charged through the field on two wheels though, producing a split of 2:23:02 and moving up to fourth place after the bike.

A 1:20:29 half-marathon kept her in contention at the front of the pack, but she was unable to rein in Spirig, Sarissa de Vries and Lisa Norden – who all earned podium finishes.

With roster spots for the Collins Cup at stake, every race is vital, especially with the calibre of athletes Team Europe has at its disposal. Katrina though advertised her claims to the team captains here.

“I’m satisfied with 4th, it was what I had today,” she said on social media afterwards.

“Not an outstanding result for me but an excellent field which challenged me and has stoked a fire that really needed stoking!”

Next up for the Team Europe contender is IRONMAN Tulsa, and these are the Weapons of Choice she will have at her disposal for that full-distance test:

Swim

Goggles: Orca
Wetsuit: Orca
Speedsuit: Orca
Trisuit: 2XU
Sports Watch: Wahoo

Bike

Bike frame: BMC
Frame size: Small
Aerobars: Custom
Wheels: DT Swiss
Tyres: Hutchinson 25mm Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano
Computer: Wahoo
Power meter: Stages
Crank Length: 165mm
Helmet: Uvex
Cycling Shoes: Mavic
Saddle: Selle Italia

Run

Shoes: Nike
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo
Eyewear: Uvex
Headwear: 2XU
Nutrition: 6D Energy Gels

The post Weapon of Choice || Kat Matthews appeared first on PTO.

Ranked at #14 for Team Europe ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, Heemeryck picked up five 70.3 wins back in 2019 as he established himself firmly among the world’s elite triathletes.

The Belgian also topped the Challenge Family World Bonus standings that year – his first as a professional.

Pieter then came home in a respectable 18th at the PTO 2020 Championship in Florida, which saw one of the strongest fields ever assembled by the sport.

2021 started with Heemeryck racing at IRONMAN Dubai, but after struggling on the 90km bike leg he decided to pull out of the event.

The 31-year-old had looked set to bounce back from his disappointment in the Middle East after a strong start to his race at Challenge Mogán-Gran Canaria.

He exited the water within seven seconds of race leader Andrea Salvisberg, and was still in touch with the leaders after clocking one of the quicker bike splits of the day at 2:05:39.

However, Heemeryck was forced to withdraw once again before completing the run. Regardless, he remains optimistic about the season, with both events in 2021 providing much-needed competitive racing after a winter break.

“Bad times make the good times better,” he wrote on social media after the Gran Canaria race. “Not the way I hoped to start my season with a second DNF in a row but I will have to deal with it.

“Getting back on a good level but still some time needed to compete with the best athletes in the world. Thanks for the support! Will be back soon.”

Pieter will aim for improved performances during the coming months, with his results since turning professional two years ago meaning he is still in contention for a Team Europe place at August’s Collins Cup.

Here are his ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Blueseventy
Wetsuit: Blueseventy Helix
Speedsuit: Blueseventy PZ4TX
Trisuit: Skinfit Streamliner Bullet

Bike

Bike frame: Scott Plasma 6
Frame size: 54
Aerobars: Syncros
Front wheel: DT Swiss Arc 1100
Rear Wheel: DT Swiss Disc
Tyres: Continental GP 5000
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura ace/Ultegra
Power meter: Stages
Crank Length: 172.5mm
Gearing: 55/42
Helmet: Scott Split Plus
Cycling Shoes: Scott Road RC SL Premium
Saddle: Syncros Belcarra Tri

Run

Shoes: Hoka One One Carbon X
Eyewear: 100%
Headwear: Compressport

The post Weapon of Choice || Pieter Heemeryck appeared first on PTO.

Ranked at #18 for Team Europe ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, Norden came home in third place after a strong all-round performance in idyllic surroundings.

The Swedish athlete exited the water in third after clocking 24:20, leading a chasing contingent behind the rapid trio of Sara Perez, Nicola Spirig and Sarissa de Vries.

Norden then fought her way into second place on the bike, overhauling de Vries and registering a 2:19:26 split, eclipsed only by eventual race winner Spirig.

Although de Vries battled back to reclaim second place on the run, Lisa finished the leg in a commendable 1:23:23, less than half a minute behind her rival.

She stopped the clock at 4:11:43 for the race, well clear of fourth-place finisher Katrina Matthews, who was more than two minutes further back.

It was an impressive display from Norden to be so competitive across all three legs and claim a spot on the podium in her first race of the year.

The 36-year-old was delighted to simply be racing once again, with her performance in tough conditions an added bonus.

“Boom. 3rd today after a very hard race @challengegrancanaria,” she wrote on social media. “Analysis comes later, but so far just happy to be racing again.”

“Congrats @nicolaspirigofficial for a stellar race and @sarissadevries for a well-earned podium.”

Now Lisa will be seeking more positive results ahead of August’s Collins Cup in order to stake her claim for a spot on Team Europe.

Here are Lisa’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Colting Wetsuits
Wetsuit: Colting Wetsuits
Speedsuit: Tyr Torque
Trisuit: Trimtex Aero 2.0 Tri
Sports Watch: Garmin Fenix 5S Plus

Bike

Bike frame: SCOTT Plasma 6
Frame size: M
Aerobars: Drag2zero low raise poles
Front wheel: Swiss Side Hadron 2 Ultimate 800
Rear Wheel: Swiss Side Hadron Disc
Tyres: Pirelli PZERO TLR race SL 26mm
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura ace/ Ultegra
Power meter: InPeak
Head Unit: Garmin Edge
Crank Length: 170mm
Gearing: 53/39 11-28
Helmet: SCOTT split
Cycling Shoes: Shimano Sphyre
Saddle: Syncros

Run

Shoes: Hoka One One Rocket X
Eyewear: Oakley
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin
Misc: Compressport calf guards

The post Weapon of Choice || Lisa Norden appeared first on PTO.

Ranked at #6 for Team Internationals ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, Smith held off fellow countryman Braden Currie at Glendhu Bay in his native New Zealand, finishing just 13 seconds clear of his rival after a thrilling race.

Smith produced an admirable pace over the swim and bike legs, opening up what proved to be a decisive four-minute lead ahead of the run.

His impressive bike leg saw him clock a stellar 2:05:08 split, with his overall time almost 10 minutes quicker than his effort in 2020.

This year has already brought another laudable result for Kyle, finishing third at IRONMAN New Zealand as his stature within the professional triathlon world continues to grow.

He threatened to add another victory to his name on his full IRONMAN debut as he exited the waters of Lake Taupo in 46:33, nearly a minute clear of the chasing pack.

He was eventually overhauled by race winner Currie and second-placed Mike Phillips, but he was strong once again on the bike, registering 4:23:49 for the leg.

Smith’s overall time was 8:08:54 in New Zealand, and given he was only beaten by two former winners of the event, he was understandably proud of his debut at full distance.

“IRONMAN debut and what a day it was,” he wrote on social media after the race. “Taupo is really something special. It was an honour to debut at home.”

Currie may have earned the status of New Zealand’s strongest full-distance athlete, but Smith will fancy his chances of being on the shortlist for a Captain’s pick at the Collins Cup in August.

With the race in Šamorín being shorter, Smith’s win at CHALLENGEWANAKA may have been enough to prove his worth to the Team Internationals captains.

Here are Kyle’s Weapons of Choice:

Swim

Goggles: Huub Varga
Wetsuit: Huub Agilis
Trisuit: Huub Anemoi
Sports Watch: Garmin Vivoactive 3 Music

Bike

Bike frame: Scott Plasma 5
Frame size: 57
Aerobars: Wattshop Anemoi
Front wheel: Corima Tri Spoke
Rear Wheel: HED Stinger Disc
Tyres: Vittoria Corsa
Tyre and Tube type: Tubular
Component Groupset: Shimano Di2
Power meter: SRM
Head Unit: Garmin 510
Crank Length: 170mm
Pedals: Shimano Dura-Ace
Gearing: 53/39 11-25
Helmet: Rudy Project Wing
Cycling Shoes: Sidi T-5
Saddle: ISM Adamo

Run

Shoes: Asics Metaracer
Eyewear: Rudy Project Defender
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin

The post Weapon of Choice || Kyle Smith appeared first on PTO.

Pallant-Browne, ranked #15 for Team Europe ahead of the rescheduled Collins Cup, was scintillating ‘on land’ in South Africa in March and was in terrific form once again a month later in Florida.

The British athlete was second to exit the Gulf of Mexico waters, just over a minute behind Sonja Catano – an immensely strong swimmer.

It didn’t take long for Emma to claim the race lead once on the bike, opening up a gap of more than one-and-a-half minutes to her nearest challenger at the midway point of the leg.

She started the run with her lead over second-placed Heather Jackson still intact and was over six minutes clear of the following contingent of athletes.

Lesley Smith was rapid over the final leg as she stormed into second, but Pallant-Browne’s victory never looked in doubt as she crossed the line in 4:18:48, more than four minutes clear.

Emma was delighted with her effort in the Florida heat as she added yet another 70.3 title to her growing list of accolades.

“Definitely found my deep dark place!” she wrote on social media after the race. “Humidity [is] always a killer for me and [I] survive by walking the aid stations! Progress.”

“Thank you so much for all the messages and support, my amazing team, sponsors, hubby, top coach @tri_thedon and on the ground rockstars @frumpycob and @byron.labare.

“Thanks @lesleyesmith and @hjacksonracing for the tough, tough racing and well done to all who raced!”
Emma’s prosperous start to 2021 will no doubt have caught the eye of the Team Europe captains ahead of the Collins Cup.

Here are her Weapons of Choice:

Swim

Goggles: Orca Killer
Wetsuit: Orca 3.8
Speedsuit: Orca
Trisuit: Santini
Sports Watch: Wahoo Rival

Bike

Bike frame: Specialized Shiv
Frame size: Medium
Front wheel: Roval Rapide 50
Rear Wheel: Roval Disc
Tyres: S-Works Cotton
Tyre and Tube type: Latex Tubes
Component Groupset: SRAM Axs
Power meter: Quarq
Head Unit: Wahoo Elemnt Roam
Crank Length: 170
Gearing: 10/33
Helmet: S-Works TT
Cycling Shoes: S-Works Exo
Saddle: S-Works Sitero

Run

Shoes: Hoka Rocket X
Eyewear: Oakley
Headwear: Precision Hydration Cap
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo Tickr

The post Weapon of Choice || Emma Pallant-Browne appeared first on PTO.

The budding American star has gradually grown accustomed to elite professional racing since her debut in 2018, and her results so far in 2021 have been a testament to that progress.

Becharas, who is currently #19 in the Team USA rankings for the rescheduled Collins Cup, had earlier finished 11th at CHALLENGEMIAMI in March after a solid all-round performance.

The following month brought another laudable result in Texas as she claimed a top-10 finish with an assured display.

Lisa clocked the third fastest time of the day for the bike leg at 2:17:25, beaten only by Kimberley Morrison and race winner Skye Moench.

Becharas crossed the finish line in 4:20:10 in Texas, just over two minutes behind triathlon veteran and serial 70.3 race winner Jackie Hering.

She was understandably delighted with her performance and thanked Hering for her words of motivation in the closing stages of the race.

“I am so stoked on 8th place at Texas 70.3!” she posted on social media after the race.

“Proud of how far I’ve come and the effort I put in today! Congrats to @skyemoench for the win and absolutely drilling the bike! I tried to keep up!

“Thanks for giving me a pep talk with 3 miles to go @jackiemhering! I love this sport, racing with these badass ladies and building my dream!

“Thank you for all the cheers out there! I wish I could personally thank you all!”

Lisa will be hoping to continue on her upward trajectory over the rest of year, with the prospect of securing a place with Team USA for the Collins Cup still within reach.

Here are Lisa’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Speedo Hydrospec
Wetsuit: Roka Maverick
Speedsuit: Roka
Trisuit: Varlo Performance Apparel
Sports Watch: Garmin 945

Bike

Bike frame: Quintanaroo PR6 disc
Frame size: 52
Aerobars: Zipp Vuka
Front wheel: ORR Cycling 8.4
Tyres: Continental Grand Prix 4000s
Component Groupset: Shimano Ultegra
Crank Length: 170mm
Helmet: Giro Aerohead
Cycling Shoes: Shimano S-Phyre
Saddle: ISM

Run

Shoes: Saucony Shift
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin
Eyewear: Roka Sunglasses
Headwear: Qt2 Systems Visor

The post Weapon of Choice || Lisa Becharas appeared first on PTO.

The Team Internationals #6 has produced a number of impressive performances, and has now won three of her last four starts at Taupo, CHALLENGEWANAKA and the PTO-supported Rotorua Suffer.

Only a second-place finish at Tauranga Half stopped the 30-year-old from claiming a clean sweep of elite local events. She finished a close second to Team Internationals #1 Teresa Adam there.

Hannah didn’t have it all her own way in Taupo in her first full-distance outing – she trailed Rebecca Clarke by more than five minutes coming out of the water and had it all to do on land.

Hannah soon took to the front on two wheels though, and didn’t relinquish her lead the rest of the way. She was more than 11 minutes faster than Clarke over the 180km bike course.

A 3:10:50 marathon completed her fantastic day, again the fastest split of the entire field.

A total time of 9:01:49 in her first professional full-distance race will certainly have caught the attention of the Team Internationals captains with Collins Cup spots up for grabs over the next few months.

“Wow what a day!” Hannah exclaimed on her Instagram account after taking victory.

“IRONMAN distance sure is a long way! Yesterday was about tackling the tough moments and embracing the good ones through my first IRONMAN, aiming to deliver a pretty consistent day and enjoy my first ever long-distance race.

“So stoked I was able to do that and to take home the win on top is so special.”

Hannah has these ‘Weapons of Choice’ in her arsenal to chase that Collins Cup berth:

Swim

Goggles: FORM
Wetsuit: 2XU P2 Propel
Speedsuit: 2XU Prototype
Trisuit: 2XU Perform Suit
Sports Watch: Garmin Forerunner 945

Bike

Bike frame: Trek Speed Concept
Frame size: Small
Aerobars: 5150 Speedshop
Front wheel: ENVE 78s
Rear Wheel: ENVE Disc
Tyres: Continental GP5000
Tyre and Tube type: 25mm Clincher
Component Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2
Power meter: Favero Assioma Pedals
Head Unit: Garmin Edge 520
Crank Length: 155mm
Helmet: Giro Aerohead
Cycling Shoes: Custom Painted Fizik Aria’s
Saddle: ISM

Run

Shoes: Nike NEXT%
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin HRM Dual
Eyewear: Oakley Radar

The post Weapon of Choice || Hannah Wells appeared first on PTO.

Up against a world-class field at the Homestead-Miami Speedway, the PTO World Ranked #27 showed his worth to the Team USA captains as stars across the globe continued to chase those coveted Collins Cup slots at Šamorín in August.

The American currently finds himself ninth in qualifying protocol for Team USA, but he defeated several of the athletes above him in his opening race of the season.

Fastest through the water in a time of 20:26, Ben emerged onto land knowing that a number of world’s best – including PTO World Ranked #1 Jan Frodeno, #6 Lionel Sanders, #36 Ben Hoffman, #10 Rudy Von Berg and #11 Matt Hanson – would be in hot pursuit.

The 28-year-old continued to excel on two wheels, but dropped back to fifth in the standings as Frodeno, Sanders, Magnus Ditlev and Andrew Starykowicz all passed him.

A 55:11 run split put him right back in contention for a podium though, and a dramatic late pass of Chris Leiferman was enough to clinch third place behind Frodeno and Sanders.

“Solid start to the season with 3rd behind two guys I really respect in the sport – Jan Frodeno and Lionel Sanders,” Kanute posted shortly after the race.

“I raced consistent throughout the day, raced my race, and finished strong. It is still early in the season, and I look forward to building on this race.”

Meanwhile, triathlon fans across the globe will be salivating at the prospect of the CHALLENGEMIAMI podium lining up on the start line as one of the 12 individual matchups at the Collins Cup.

Frodeno and Sanders currently lead the standings for Team Europe and Team Internationals respectively, while Kanute is putting forward a strong case for inclusion in Team USA.

Here are Ben’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Magic5
Speedsuit: Deboer Tsunami 1.0
Trisuit: Santini Viper
Sports Watch: Polar Vantage V2

Bike

Bike frame: Trek Speed Concept
Frame size: M
Aero Bars: Bontrager
Front wheel: Bontrager Aeolus XXX 6.0
Rear Wheel: SRAM Zipp Disc
Component Groupset: SRAM Etap
Power meter: Quarq
Crank Length: 165mm
Gearing: 52 10/28
Helmet: Rudy Project Wing TT
Cycling Shoes: Bontrager XXX
Saddle: Bontrager Hilo TT

Run

Shoes: HOKA Rocket X
Eyewear: Rudy Project Spinshield
Headwear: Team Kanute USA hat
Nutrition: Infinit

The post Weapon of Choice || Ben Kanute appeared first on PTO.

The PTO World Ranked #11 produced a scintillating 2:40:46 marathon split to complete victory in Taupo by a margin of 9:26 from compatriot Mike Phillips.

Braden exited the water in second place behind Kyle Smith as the pair continued their ongoing rivalry. Up to this point Kyle had Braden’s number over half-distance with victories at the PTO-Supported Tauranga Half and CHALLENGEWANAKA.

However, the majority of Smith’s lead evaporated in the first transition as the pair began the bike leg almost in unison, along with Mike Phillips, Ben Phillips and Simon Cochrane.

Braden, Mike and Kyle then produced almost identical bike splits as Phillips led the trio by 20 seconds heading into T2.

But it was Braden who excelled on the run, dominating the field to earn a sensational victory.

The outstanding display will no doubt catch the attention of the Team Internationals captains as the race to qualify for the rescheduled Collins Cup heats up.

Braden, who currently sits third in the Team Internationals rankings, is likely to have earned a nice haul of points with his sub-8 hour showing.

“I forgot how much it takes to win an Ironman,” he said after taking victory in Taupo.

“I finished yesterday and spent an hour on a stretcher in the medical tent. I won and I’m stoked. But I’ve realised in this last year of not racing, that to win, I must summon everything I have.

“The calibre in NZ right now is world-class. I wanted this win, and I needed this win, and that’s what I brought to the start line.”

Here are the ‘Weapons of Choice’ which Braden used en route to victory:

Swim

Goggles: Blueseventy Contour
Wetsuit: Blueseventy
Speedsuit: Blueseventy
Trisuit: Cannibal
Sports Watch: Garmin Forerunner 945

Bike

Bike frame: Felt IA
Frame size: 54
Aero Bars: Custom
Front wheel: HED Vanquish Pro RC6
Rear Wheel: HED Vanquish Pro Disc
Tyres: Schwalbe Pro TT
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura Ace Di2
Power meter: Shimano Dura Ace
Head Unit: Garmin Edge 820
Crank Length: 172.5mm
Helmet: Giro Aerohead
Pedals: Speedplay
Cycling Shoes: Giro Imperial
Saddle: Gebiomized Stride
Hydration System: Custom

Run

Shoes: Asics Metaracer
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin
Eyewear: Oakley Radar EV
Headwear: Red Bull visor

The post Weapon of Choice || Braden Currie appeared first on PTO.

The New Zealander, ranked #18 in the PTO World Rankings, put in another fine performance over the half-distance in Victoria, Australia.

A tightly contested swim saw Watkinson exit the water in third-place, 11 second behind PTO World #21 Salthouse and six seconds behind Grace Thek.

A quick transition allowed Watkinson to gain an advantage of over a minute to Salthouse heading out on the bike. The two then battled it out on two wheels, Amelia just 10 seconds behind her rival heading into T2.

Another sharp transition allowed Watkinson the leave the area first, leading Salthouse by seven seconds.

However, Salthouse’s prowess on the run soon showed with Watkinson having to settle for the runners-up spot on the podium – 5:06 behind the imperious Australian.

Watkinson’s consistent performances in recent months will have ignited conversations within the Team Internationals’ quartet of captains as they watch over the potential roster.

The 29-year-old will be battling it out with the likes of Paula Findlay, Carrie Lester, Teresa Adam, Sarah Crowley, Hannah Wells and recent nemesis Salthouse for those all-important Collins Cup berths.

“Boy it was finger and feet numbing conditions,” Amelia commented on social media after the event.

“In the right spots out of the water and on the bike️. The legs have already promised to accept their invite to the next one.”

“Feeling completely wrecked and with big appreciation for all for the cheers out there. Steller showing by Ellie Salthouse and kept on my toes by Grace Thek.

“Brilliant having such epic athletes to hit it out with IRONMAN Oceania.”

Here are Amelia’s Weapons of Choice as she looks to cement her status as one of New Zealand’s top triathletes in 2021:

Swim

Goggles: Vorgee
Wetsuit: DeBoer Fjord
Speedsuit: DeBoer Tsunami
Trisuit: Wyn Republic Mojave
Sports Watch: Polar Vantage V2

Bike

Bike frame: Wilier Triestina Turbine
Frame size: Small
Front wheel: Hunt 48 Limitless Aero
Rear Wheel: Hunt TT Disc
Tyres: Schwalbe
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano
Power meter: Stages
Head Unit: Polar 450
Crank Length: 165mm
Gearing: 55/42 10-25
Helmet: Kask
Pedals: Shimano
Cycling Shoes: Shimano S-Phyre
Saddle: Bontrager
Hydration System: Profile Design
Aero Bottle: Elite CX

Run

Shoes: Asics Metaracer
Heart Rate Monitor: Polar Verity Sense
Sports Bra: Wyn Republic Racergirl

The post Weapon of Choice || Amelia Watkinson appeared first on PTO.

The German superstar was in imperious form at the Homestead-Miami Speedway earlier this month to claim a dominant victory.

He defeated PTO World Ranked #5 Lionel Sanders by more than two-and-a-half minutes while American Ben Kanute was a further minute back in third.

Second out of the water, just two seconds behind Kanute, it was the consistent display across all three disciplines which anchored Frodeno’s triumph.

He followed the second fastest swim with the third fastest bike and run splits. The result was a total demolition of a strong field.

Jan has made a habit of doing that. The multiple World Champion has won his last nine CHALLENGE, IRONMAN 70.3 and IRONMAN outings and has been described as ‘unbeatable’ by the likes of Sanders.

“After such a long time I just happy to go out and have a good race,” he shared in his post-race interview, adding later on social media, “I live for this”.

With the Collins Cup rescheduled for August in Šamorín, Jan has to be Team Europe’s ‘banker’ right now for a point at the landmark event.

Here are his ‘Weapons of Choice’ as he looks to dominate the field once again in 2021:

Swim

Goggles: TheMagic5
Wetsuit: DeBoer Fjord
Speedsuit: DeBoer Tsunami
Trisuit: RYZON Verge
Sports Watch: Wahoo RIVAL

Bike

Bike frame: CANYON Speedmax
Frame size: Large
Aero Bars: CANYON
Front wheel: Zipp 858
Rear Wheel: Zipp 858/Super9
Tyres: Continental
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: SRAM RED AXS
Power meter: Quarq
Head Unit: Wahoo BOLT
Crank Length: 170mm
Helmet: OAKLEY
Pedals: Wahoo Speedplay
Cycling Shoes: BONT
Saddle: Custom
Hydration System: CUSTOM

Run

Shoes: HOKA
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo
Eyewear: OAKLEY
Headwear: RYZON
Nutrition: MAURTEN

The post Weapon of Choice || Jan Frodeno appeared first on PTO.

The Briton faced off against several of the top 10 in the PTO World Rankings at the Homestead-Miami Speedway venue – #2 Lucy Charles-Barclay, #4 Sarah Crowley, #7 Carrie Lester, #8 Paula Findlay and #9 Skye Moench were all on the start line.

Double Commonwealth Champion Jodie exited the water in fourth place, a minute and a half behind the leading pair of Charles-Barclay and Sara Perez Sala.

A consistent display on two wheels (seventh fastest in the field) kept the 32-year-old in contention.

Jodie then unleashed a sensational 10.5mile run to outpace several of the world’s elite endurance racers.

Her time of 1:00:53 was 39 seconds faster than the next best run split, and it earned her a sensational victory.

“What a day. With a top-class group of women to race against I knew this was going to be a hard race,” Jodie said afterwards.

“To come away with the win, I couldn’t be happier.”

Having defeated a number of the world’s best, Jodie also catapulted her way into consideration for August’s inaugural Collins Cup.

If she can continue her scintillating start to 2021 during the coming months, it would be no surprise to see her earn a Team Europe berth at the landmark event.

These are the ‘Weapons of Choice’ she will do battle with in an effort to qualify for the festival of triathlon at Šamorín.

Swim

Goggles: Orca Killa
Wetsuit: Orca Predator
Speedsuit: Orca RS1
Trisuit: WYN Republic
Sports Watch: Garmin 945

Bike

Bike frame: Cervelo P3X
Frame size: 52
Aero Bars: Matt Bottrill
Wheels: CES 60
Bike Computer: Garmin
Crank length: 165mm
Pedals and Cleats: Look Keo
Helmet: Otimo Design

Run

Eyewear: Oakley
Other: Hayward Transport

The post Weapon of Choice || Jodie Stimpson appeared first on PTO.

The Scandinavian star headed into her first race of the new season as the PTO World Ranked #22, and lived up to that lofty billing with a podium performance.

After conceding a considerable chunk of time to the leaders in the swim (after recording a time of 29.18) Sara clawed her way into to contention with the third fastest bike split of the entire field (2:09:32).

The Swede made further gains on the run leg, producing the fifth fastest half-marathon split of the afternoon.

Sara’s on-land talents secured the 31-year-old a podium finish behind the Swiss duo of Daniela Ryf and Imogen Simmonds. The PTO World #1 Ryf setting a course record en route to victory.

With the rescheduled Collins Cup on the horizon in August, Svensk staked her claim for consideration at the landmark PTO-supported event.

Sara had already alerted the Team Europe Captains of her talents when finishing eighth in December’s PTO 2020 Championship in Florida.

Before those recent stellar displays, Sara had enjoyed a stunning 2019 campaign which saw her rocket up the PTO World Rankings.

The Swede won IRONMAN Barcelona, IRONMAN 70.3 St Pölten, Challenge Herning and the Swedish Championships, as well as registering top-10 finishes in the 70.3 World and European Championships.

Similar performances in 2021 would give Sara an excellent shot at making the start line in Šamorín when the Collins Cup takes place in August. These are her ‘Weapons of Choice’ for the season ahead:

Swim

Wetsuit: Sailfish
Speedsuit: Sailfish
Trisuit: Trimtex
Sports Watch: Wahoo Rival

Bike

Bike frame: Trek Speedconcept Project One
Frame size: S
Aero Bars: Bontrager Speedconcept with custom Drag2zero cups
Front wheel: Bontrager Aeolus XXX6
Rear Wheel: Zipp Super 9
Tyres: Veloflex
Tyre and Tube type: Clincher, latex tubes
Component Groupset: SRAM AXS Etap 12 speed
Power meter: Quarq
Head Unit: Wahoo Elemnt Roam
Crank Length: 165mm
Gearing: 55/43 10-28
Helmet: Rudy Project – The Wing
Eyewear: Rudy Project
Pedals: Shimano Dura Ace 9100
Cycling Shoes: Bontrager XXX Road
Saddle: Shimano Pro
Hydration System: Profile Design

Run

Shoes: Nike Vaporfly next %
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo Tickr
Eyewear: Rudy Project Spinshield

The post Weapon of Choice || Sara Svensk appeared first on PTO.

The PTO World-Ranked #26 set a blistering time of 3:33:02 to take home the title from Portugal’s Filipe Azevedo by just over a minute. Swede Rasmus Svenningsson was a further second behind to complete the podium.

A 23:21 swim from Daniel had the Dane in control early in the race, although he did have Switzerland’s Andrea Salvisberg – who would eventually finish fourth – for close company.

On a super-fast flat course, Bækkegård dropped back slightly during the bike leg, but came on strong during the run to reclaim his position at the head of affairs.

His 1:10:01 run split was only bettered by runner-up Azevedo as Daniel posted a course-record winning time.

“Season opener couldn’t have gone any better. Happy to execute on race day and just be able to race again,” exclaimed a victorious Bækkegård.

“Thank you to my whole team! I could not have done this without you.”

With The Road To Šamorín very much in the forefront of minds, Daniel will have no doubt boosted his chances of lining up for the inaugural Collins Cup in August.

The top four in the PTO World Rankings – including CHALLENGEMIAMI® winner and current #1 Jan Frodeno – occupy the four men’s automatic qualification spots for Team Europe right now. The battle for the two Captains’ Picks meanwhile is sure to be a thrilling storyline during the coming months.

As he looks to claim a spot for Slovakia, these are Daniel’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Magic 5
Wetsuit: Zone 3 Vanquish
Speedsuit: Zone 3
Trisuit: FUSION High Speed
Sports Watch: Garmin

Bike

Bike frame: Canyon Speedmax
Frame size: L
Aero Bars: Canyon
Wheels: DT-Swiss ARC
Tyres: Vittoria Corsa Speed
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano
Power meter: Quarq
Bike Computer: Garmin 1030
Crank length: 170mm
Pedals and Cleats: Speedplay Aero
Cycling Shoes: Bont Zero+
Helmet: Giro Aerohead
Gearing: 58 11-25
Saddle: Fizik
Hydration System: Canyon Internal

Run

Shoes: Nike
Eyewear: Oakley Sutro
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin
Headwear: FUSION Headband
Socks: Incylence

The post Weapon of Choice || Daniel Bækkegård appeared first on PTO.

The four-time South Australian Triathlete of the Year was introduced to the sport that year after breaking his leg playing Australian Rules Football.

Formerly competing in national athletics, Steven enjoyed swimming and cycling so much during his rehabilitation from the injury that he set his heart on competing in triathlon.

His success in the sport has continued into 2021, with a victory at Hell of the West and a commendable fourth-place finish at the PTO-supported Big Husky Triathlon.

Steven was in contention for the win heading into the final leg at Big Husky and was on the tail of then leader Caleb Noble just over halfway through the 21.1km run.

He slipped back slightly however as fatigue set in over the remainder of the leg, eventually finishing just under two minutes off the podium places.

“I took a big risk running to the lead with Caleb Noble at 10km into the run,” Steven wrote on social media after the race.

“Risk didn’t pay off and I blew up sliding back to 4th.”

“Still proud of 4th and holding on despite the legs screaming at me!”

Steven will have plentiful opportunity to return to the podium throughout this year as he competes in a series of IRONMAN events, at Geelong, Cairns and Australia.

These are Steven’s ‘Weapon of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Speedo/ Vorgee
Wetsuit: Deboer
Speedsuit: Deboer
Trisuit: Titan Performance Custom Apparel
Sports Watch: Garmin

Bike

Bike frame: Cervelo P3X
Frame size: Medium
Aero Bars: Zipp 90mm ramp
Front wheel: Irwin 90mm
Rear Wheel: Irwin Disc
Tyres: Continental GP 5000
Tyre and Tube type: Front – Tubeless, Rear – Clincher
Component Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2
Power meter: SRM
Head Unit: SRM PC8
Crank Length: 165mm
Helmet: Giro
Pedals: LOOK carbon aero pedals
Cleat System: LOOK
Cycling Shoes: Shimano
Saddle: Bontrager
Hydration System:X-Lab aero bottle

Run

Shoes: Nike Next %
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin
Headwear: SM Endurance
Nutrition: Hammer
Hydration: Prepd
Misc: Gooch Goo

The post Weapon of Choice || Steven McKenna appeared first on PTO.

A solid swim kept Renee right in contention during the early stages, coming out of the water in seventh spot with a time of 26:35 – just under two minutes behind the eventual winner Ellie Salthouse.

The 38-year-old Australian maintained her position with a solid bike leg, clocking a split of 2:27:17 to keep her top-10 position, a spot she would not surrender on the run (1:34:13).

The turnaround in Renee’s life is now well documented, as she gone from – in her own words – a 104kg chain smoker to an elite professional triathlete.

In her first-ever full-distance race, only one year after her first foray into the sport, she won her age group. In 2015 and 2016, she racked up a string of podium finishes, including an age-group win at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship.

She explained: “I think when I left home when I was 17 and moved to the city, it was like all of a sudden I didn’t have this discipline around me. It escalates and before you know it, you’re super, super unhealthy.

“I started working, because I had to pay my own way, so I was working part-time while I studied, and I just fell in love with work and my career.

“I stopped doing uni after like a year-and-a-half into my course, and when I worked full-time, I just got obsessed with [my] career. Making money, being important, succeeding in my job – so yes, that is a very strong trait.”

These are Renee’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Speedo Opal
Wetsuit: Deboer Fjord 1.0
Speedsuit: Deboer Tsunami
Trisuit: Catfish Athlete Apparel

Bike

Bike frame: Trek Speed Concept
Frame size: Small
Aero Bars: Drag2zero
Front wheel: Zipp 404
Rear Wheel: Caden Disc
Tyres: Pirelli PZero Velo
Tyre and Tube type: Latex tubes
Component Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2
Power meter: Stages dual sided
Head Unit: Garmin Edge 830
Crank Length: 165mm
Helmet: Met Codatronca
Pedals: Shimano
Cleat System: Shimano
Cycling Shoes: Louis Garneau Tri Air Lite
Gearing: 55/39 11-23
Saddle: Bontrager Hilo Pro Carbon
Hydration System: X Lab Torpedo/ Profile Design

Run

Shoes: Nike Next %
Eyewear: Oakley Latch
Sports Watch: Garmin Forerunner 945

The post Weapon of Choice || Renee Kiley appeared first on PTO.

The 36-year-old Australian was at the forefront of the field following a stunning bike leg, but he was then unable to keep pace with eventual winner Simon Hearn on the run.

PTO World-Ranked #39 Van Berkel came out of the water in eighth place in a time of 23:48 – 1:12 behind New Zealand’s Trent Thorpe.

Tim was the fastest man in the entire field on the bike, recording a split of 2:08:23 as the top 10 were then separated by a mere 11 seconds.

A run split of 1:16:33 kept ‘Berks’ in contention, but outstanding runs from Hearn, Tim Reed and Caleb Noble just pipped the experienced Aussie to the finish line.

With the Collins Cup on the agenda later this year, Van Berkel will hoping his performance at Big Husky helps to put him in contention for the landmark event. Team Internationals team captain Craig Alexander spent the day watching intently from the commentary position.

Tim said afterwards: “I was a little rusty, but it was good to be back racing again. Congratulations to the fellas up front”.

These are Tim’s ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: The Magic 5
Wetsuit: Deboer
Speedsuit: Deboer
Trisuit: Camino Apparel
Sports Watch: Garmin 920xt

Bike

Bike frame: Giant Trinity Advanced Pro
Frame size: Small
Aero Bars: Sync Ergonomics Project 0.2 Evo
Front wheel: Cadex Tubeless
Rear Wheel: Cadex Tubeless
Front Tyre: Cadex Race 25
Rear Tyre: Cadex Race 25
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura-Ace Di2
Power meter: Shimano Dura-Ace
Head Unit: Garmin 520
Crank Length: 165
Helmet: Giant
Pedals: Shimano
Cleat System: Shimano
Cycling Shoes: Shimano S-Phyre RC902
Eyewear: Oakley
Gearing: 55/42 11-25
Saddle: Cadex
Hydration System: Giant inbuilt

Run

Shoes: Nike
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo Tickr
Eyewear: Oakley
Headwear: Modex Running Cap

The post Weapon of Choice || Tim van Berkel appeared first on PTO.

The PTO World Ranked #21 came into the event in fantastic form, have taken victory at ‘Hell of the West’ earlier in February, beating Amelia Watkinson in the process.

Ellie, who turns 28 on March 9, dominated from start to finish and completed the clean sweep of fastest swim, fastest bike leg and fastest run split.

Her swim leg of 24:56 was only matched by Annabel Luxford, who left the water at the same time to enter T1. The two maintained their lead through the bike portion of the race, with Ellie recording a race-best 2:19:54 over the 90km course with Luxford 15 seconds behind.

The Australian, who usually splits her time between Brisbane and Boulder, soon opened up a gap to Luxford on the run course as she scampered to victory in emphatic fashion.

Only Watkinson could keep pace on the run with Ellie, but by that point in the race the New Zealander was two minutes behind the leader and unable to erode the gap.

“The Elite Energy Big Husky Triathlon was an incredible experience! With this win I am also proud to now call myself the Australian Long Course Champion,” Ellie said after the race.

Her performance, and form since the turn of the year, will no doubt put her very much in contention for an automatic berth to the rescheduled Collins Cup in Šamorín in August.

Ellie currently sits sixth in the qualification protocol for that landmark event, and here are her ‘Weapons of Choice’ for 2021:

Swim

Goggles: Vorgee Missile
Wetsuit: Zoot WikiWiki 2.0
Speedsuit: Zoot Ultra Swimskin
Trisuit: Zoot LTD Tri Aero FZ racesuit

Bike

Bike frame: Trek Speed Concept
Frame size: Small
Aero Bars: Bontrager Speed Concept Mono S-Bend Bar extension
Front wheel: Bontrager Aeolus 4 clincher rim brake
Rear Wheel: Zipp Super-9 clincher rim brake disc wheel
Tyres: Bontrager R4 320 25mm
Component Groupset: Sram AXS Etap 12 speed
Power meter: Quarq AXS
Head Unit: Wahoo Elemnt Bolt
Crank Length: 167.5mm
Pedals: Shimano Dura-Ace 9100 carbon
Cleat System: Shimano
Cycling Shoes: Bontrager XXX road cycling shoe
Helmet: Giro Aerohead Mips
Eyewear: Oakley Radar EV Path
Gearing: 55/43 10-28
Saddle: ISM PN 3.0
Hydration System: X-lab Torpedo Versa Slim

Run

Shoes: Hoka One One Carbon X
Headwear: Zoot tech trucker cap
Sports Watch: Wahoo Elemnt Rival

The post Weapon of Choice || Ellie Salthouse appeared first on PTO.

The 44-year-old American continues to compete with the world’s finest on a regular basis, and will be eager to impress again during the 2021 season.

Andy has competed in more than 200 endurance races – winning more than 50 of them – and is a four-time USAT Triathlete of the Year.

His greatest accomplishment to date is victory at the 2007 IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Nice – one of 30 successes to date on the 70.3 circuit.

Eight victories at full distance also adorn Andy’s illustrious resumé, quite simply few have matched the levels he has so consistently attained.

A sub-24-minute swim put the triathlon legend in close proximity of the leaders in the recent PTO 2020 Championship at CHALLENGEDAYTONA®. He then maintained his performance through the bike stage to be positioned on the edge of the top 20 after T2.

A 01:04:35 run split then almost secured Andy a share of the landmark $1,150,000 prize pool, as he eventually finished in 22nd place.

“Who knew that going around and around in circles could make you so happy,” he posted on social media after the race.

“Thanks @professionaltriathletesorg and @challengedaytona for setting up a great day and a great event!”

The PTO World Ranked #48 is not done yet, his thirst for success continues, and these are his ‘Weapons of Choice’ for 2021:

Swim

Goggles: Huub
Wetsuit: Huub
Speedsuit: Huub
Trisuit: Wattie Ink Contender 2.0

Bike

Bike frame: Ceepo Katana Disc
Frame size: L
Aero Bars: Vision TFE Aerobars
Front wheel: Vision Metron 40 SL Clincher/TL
Rear Wheel: Vision Metron Disc SL Clincher/TL
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura Ace
Power meter: Vision Powerbox 55/42
Pedals: Speedplay zero aero
Cleat System: Speedplay
Cycling Shoes: Shimano Sphyre
Helmet: Kask Bambino Pro
Eyewear: Koo
Saddle: ISM
Chain: CeramicSpeed
Pulley: Oversized CeramicSpeed
Hydration System: Infinit

Run

Shoes: Altra Escalante Racer
Eyewear: Koo
Socks: CEP

The post Weapon of Choice || Andy Potts appeared first on PTO.

The perfect example of that competitive spirit came when she made her return to the sport after the birth of her second child in 2018.

She didn’t just come back, she roared back by winning three IRONMAN 70.3 titles in 2019 as well as becoming US Snowshoe Racing National Champion.

Her victories at Traverse City, Steelhead and Campeche were a testament to her desire to return to elite levels, and a reminder of her tremendous ability.

Jackie appears to be as good as ever as we head into the 2021 season, with the promise of more terrific performances to come.

The 36-year-old American star has always been renowned as a strong runner, and she did that reputation no harm with her performance in the PTO 2020 Championship at CHALLENGEDAYTONA®.

Jackie finished the swim in the bottom half of the star-studded field in Florida, leaving her with plenty of work to do.

But a strong display ‘on land’ saw her haul herself towards the frontrunners, climbing as high as 10th on the opening laps of the run following an excellent bike split.

A five-minute penalty midway through the run however saw Jackie slip back slightly, but she finished strongly to cross the line in 19th position.

“The dust has settled and I am so dang thankful for the opportunity to race this year @professionaltriathletesorg champs @challengedaytona,” she wrote on social media.

“I love racing and already can’t wait to do it again.”

Jackie is now #20 in the PTO World Rankings, and she will be eager to improve on that position in 2021.

These will be her ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Blueseventy Contour
Wetsuit: Blueseventy Helix
Speedsuit: Blueseventy P24TX+
Trisuit: Wyn Republic
Sports Watch: Garmin 935

Bike

Bike frame: Ventum
Frame size: M
Front wheel: Enve SES 7.8
Rear Wheel: Enve SES 7.8
Front tyre: Conti GP5000
Rear tyre: Conti GP5000
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura Ace
Power meter: Shimano Dura Ace Crank
Bike Computer: Garmin 520
Crank length: 165mm
Pedals: Shimano
Cleat System: Shimano
Cycling Shoes: Shimano
Helmet: Rudy Project The Wing
Eyewear: The Wing Eye Shield
Saddle: ISM
Hydration System: Bottle

Run

Shoes: Newton Distance
Eyewear: Rudy Project Tralyx
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin 935 inbuilt wrist

The post Weapon of Choice || Jackie Hering appeared first on PTO.

Standing at 6ft 4ins (1.93m), the American fondly known as ‘Big Metz’ once had dreams of becoming a professional basketball player, but he has his dad to thank for pointing him towards triathlon.

After training with his father as a teenager, Justin discovered a real love for the sport. After just a few years of competition he was voted USA Triathlon Rookie of the Year In 2014.

His first professional victory came at CHALLENGEICELAND in 2017, before he topped the podium at CHALLENGESANGIL in Mexico in both 2018 and 2019.

2020 brought a particularly special moment for Justin and wife Jeanni – a fellow professional triathlete – as they both claimed victory at the Huntington Triathlon in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

An appearance as a wildcard in the PTO 2020 Championship at CHALLENGEDAYTONA® was another landmark moment in his blossoming career. Justin finished 33rd in the deepest field ever assembled by the sport.

“Challenging race for me at the @professionaltriathletesorg championship yesterday,” he said afterwards.

“It was an important step in my development to be part of this race and see the current level of world championship racing. I have to keep working, stay patient and trust the process.”

Justin is keen to learn from his experience in Daytona and will be looking to improve on his position of #89 in the PTO World Rankings in 2021.

Here are his ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Blue Seventy N2
Wetsuit: Blue Seventy Helix
Speedsuit: Blue Seventy
Trisuit: Castelli All out
Sports Watch: Garmin Forerunner 945

Bike

Bike frame: Quintanaroo PR six Disc
Frame size: XL
Aero Bars: Profile Design
Front wheel: Shimano Dura Ace c60
Rear Wheel: Unbranded disc wheel
Front tyre: Vittoria Corsa
Rear tyre: Continental GP5000
Tyre and Tube type: Front Tubular/ Rear Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano Dura Ace Di2
Power meter: Shimano
Bike Computer: Garmin
Crank length: 172.5mm
Pedals: Shimano
Cleat System: Shimano
Cycling Shoes: Shimano
Helmet: Giro
Eyewear: Visor
Gearing: 58/46 11-25
Saddle: Cobb Jof 55
Hydration System: Profile Integrated Unit

Run

Shoes: Nike Alphafly EK Limited One
Eyewear: Oakley
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin

The post Weapon of Choice || Justin Metzler appeared first on PTO.

He is one of the most decorated long-course triathletes in history, being a ITU Long-Distance World champion, a nine-time IRONMAN 70.3 winner, a two-time IRONMAN winner and a silver-medalist at the IRONMAN World Championship in 2019.

The PTO World Ranked #13 was one of the star-studded athletes who lined up on the start line at the PTO 2020 Championship at CHALLENGEDAYTONA® for the greatest roster ever assembled for a triathlon event.

A swim split of 23:11 heralded an excellent performance, as Tim exited the swim in the top 20, just 52 seconds behind the leaders.

A formidable bike leg from ‘T.O.’ lifted the American into sixth position after T2 – his bike split of 1:40:15 being the ninth fastest of the entire field – putting him in contention for a share of the record $1.15million prize purse on offer.

Unfortunately for the stalwart, he was unable to maintain his progress through the run, dropping back down the field to finish 16th, but he still earned €8,000.

“Horrible swim, amazing bike and then back to horribleness after mile 4 on the run…finished 5 minutes off the win in 16th,” is how Tim described the race on Instagram.

“Sure, I would’ve loved to have held on during the run, but my race is insignificant compared to the magnitude of this historic event.

“With the PTO Championship, we saw a groundbreaking prize purse, next-level broadcast production (and distribution) and a true investment in professional triathlon.”

Take a look at Tim’s ‘Weapons of Choice’ as he heads into another season of action:

Swim

Goggles: Aquasphere K-180
Wetsuit: Aquasphere Phantom
Trisuit: Santini Vipr
Sports Watch: Garmin Forerunner 945

Bike

Bike frame: Trek Speed Concept
Frame size: L
Aero Bars: Matt Bottrill
Front wheel: Bontrager
Rear Wheel: Zipp
Front tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speed
Rear tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speed
Tyre and Tube type: Tubular
Component Groupset: Sram Red AXS
Power meter: Garmin Vector
Bike Computer: Garmin Edge 1030
Crank length: 167.5mm
Pedals: Garmin Vector
Cleat System: Look
Cycling Shoes: Bontrager XXX
Helmet: Giro
Eyewear: Visor
Gearing: 54 10-28
Saddle: Cobb Jof 55
Hydration System: Bottles

Run

Shoes: Hoka Rocket X
Eyewear: Oakley
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin Pro
Headwear: Tim & Rinny Show

The post Weapon of Choice || Tim O’Donnell appeared first on PTO.

A competitive runner in college, the British athlete was a force over shorter distances during her breakout year in professional triathlon in 2016.

India took victory at the Cagliari ITU Triathlon World Cup and followed up with further wins in the Individual and Mixed Relay races at the Lisbon ETU Triathlon European Championships later that year.

In 2018, she replicated her winning form over longer distances, claiming victory at IRONMAN 70.3 Weymouth. That instant success proved to be no fluke with more 70.3 accolades coming in 2019.

‘Indie’ picked up a win at Lahti in Finland as well as another victory at Weymouth, alongside claiming a very commendable 11th at the IRONMAN 70.3 World Championship in Nice.

India’s display in the PTO 2020 Championship at CHALLENGEDAYTONA® was also one to be proud of. In a field of unprecedented depth and quality, the 32-year-old was consistent across all three disciplines to come home in 18th.

“Wow. What an experience,” she wrote on social media after the race in Florida. “I’m proud of putting myself on the start line @professionaltriathletesorg Championship @challengedaytona.

“Grateful to be able to race at all in 2020, let alone in the biggest race of the year.”

India will be hoping to improve on her current position of #45 in the latest PTO World Rankings with some more impressive results in 2021.

These will be her ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Googles: Speedo Speedsocket
Wetsuit: Snugg
Trisuit: Endura

Bike

Bike frame: Specialized Shiv
Frame size: 52
Aero Bars: VSE 40′ bars, Wattshop elbow pads
Front wheel: Enve
Rear Wheel: Roval Disc
Front tyre: Conti GT5000
Rear tyre: Conti GT5000
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano Di2
Power meter: Stages
Bike Computer: Garmin
Crank length: 165mm
Pedals: Speedplay
Cleat System: Speedplay
Cycling Shoes: Specialized S-Works
Helmet: Kask Mistral
Gearing: 53/39 11-25
Saddle: Specialized Stero
Hydration System: Inbuilt
Hydration/Nutrition: Precision Hydration & Maurten Gels

Run

Shoes: Nike Alpha Fly
Headwear: Kings of the wild frontier hat
Sports Watch: Garmin

The post Weapon of Choice || India Lee appeared first on PTO.

Currently sitting at #4 in the latest PTO World Rankings, she is a perennial long-distance powerhouse.

Sarah has twice taken bronze in the IRONMAN World Championship at Kona (2017 and 2019), won the ITU Long Distance Triathlon title in 2017 and has a string of other big-race wins to her name.

Some scintillating performances during the 2019 campaign in particular, earned her a mammoth 343.35-point haul in the PTO World Rankings.

Sarah, not surprisingly, went into the PTO 2020 Championship at CHALLENGEDAYTONA® in December as one of the favourites in a field of unprecedented depth.

She endured a disappointing day personally though, coming home in 24th place. Afterwards she illustrated her personal pain in a heartfelt Instagram post, but admitted there were plenty of positives to have come out of 2020.

“I’ve been pretty hard on myself after a pretty rough day at Challenge Daytona. However, there is a bigger picture that I need to keep in perspective.

“Principally, after the most disruptive year in our sport we rallied together as athletes and suited up for a world-class hit out. So, it was fantastic to be a part of such a groundbreaking new concept of racing from the @professionaltriathletesorg.”

With the 2021 Collins Cup now firmly on the horizon, Sarah will hope to clinch an automatic qualification spot to represent Team International at the landmark PTO event.

As she prepares for what lies ahead in 2021, these are the ‘Weapons of Choice’ Sarah will be using when she returns to action:

Swim

Goggles: Form Swim
Wetsuit: Sailfish
Speedsuit: Sailfish
Trisuit: 2XU
Sports Watch: Wahoo Rival

Bike

Bike frame: Canyon Speedmax CFR
Frame size: Small
Aero Bars: Speedbar
Front wheel: Zipp 454
Rear Wheel: Zipp 858
Front tyre: Conti TT 111
Rear tyre: Conti TT 111
Tube type: Latex
Component Groupset: SRAM Red AXS Etap
Power meter: Quarq
Bike Computer: Wahoo Elemnt Bolt
Crank length: 165
Pedals: Look Carbon Keo ti
Cleat System: Look
Gearing: 10/33
Helmet: Oakley AR07 long tail
Eyewear: Oakley Sutro Custom
Saddle: ISM Adamo 4.0
Hydration System: Canyon Integrated

Run

Shoes: Hoka Rocker X
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo Tickr
Eyewear: Oakley Sutro
Headwear: Precision Hydration Cap

The post Weapon of Choice || Sarah Crowley appeared first on PTO.

‘RVB’ was certainly one of the leading contenders heading into the landmark event in Florida, despite the incredible depth of the opposition.

He had been in exceptional form before the COVID-19 pandemic began to decimate the global triathlon calendar in early 2020. His bronze at the 70.3 World Championship in Nice in 2019 being a particular high point.

The 27-year-old American finished a very impressive fifth at the Daytona International Speedway®, having been within striking distance of the lead for much of the race.

A swim split of 23:41 allowed Rudy to keep in early touch with the short-course stars who dominated the in-water portion of the race.

On the bike, a stunning split of 1:39:31 then saw him head the strongest field the sport has ever assembled coming out of T2.

Rudy was only denied a podium spot by some exceptional running performances, his 1:01:27 split unable to hold off the imperious Gustav Iden and the fast-finishing Matt Hanson, George Goodwin and Lionel Sanders.

That fifth place not only won Rudy $30,000 in prize money, it also cemented his position in the top 10 of the PTO World Rankings. He now sits at #8, in prime position to earn an automatic qualification spot for the inaugural Collins Cup later this year.

Rudy’s natural talent makes him one to watch again during the 2021 season, and here’s what the American will be using as his ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Wetsuit: Sailfish IPS Ultimate Plus
Speedsuit: Sailfish Rebel
Trisuit: RYD Fusion
Sports Watch: Garmin 945

Bike

Bike frame: Trek Speed Concept
Frame size: XL
Aero Bars: 51 Speedshop FSM reversed
Front wheel: DT Swiss ARC 1100 80mm
Rear Wheel: Bontrager
Front tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speed
Rear tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speed
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: SRAM Red AXS wireless
Power meter: SRAM Quarq
Bike Computer: Garmin 1030 Plus
Crank length: 175mm
Pedals: Look Keo Carbon Ti Ceramic
Cleat System: Look
Cycling Shoes: Bontrager XXX
Helmet: Ekoi Kona 2
Eyewear: Ekoi helmet visor
Gearing: 54 1x 10-28
Saddle: Custom 51 Speedshop
Hydration System: Bontrager BTA- Elite aero

Run

Shoes: Nike Alphafly
Eyewear: Ekoi Premium 70
Heart Rate Monitor: Garmin
Headwear: Compressport
Socks and Aero Sleeves: Compressport

The post Weapon of Choice || Rudy von Berg appeared first on PTO.

The 28-year-old, whose first season as a professional came just three years ago in 2017, landed prize money of $11,000 for his efforts and further justified his switch from competitive swimming.

Naturally, Angert was one of the quicker athletes over the first leg and exited the water just outside the top 10.

The 2019 IRONMAN Barcelona champion then set about catching the frontrunners on the bike, and his electric pace would see him lead the all-star line-up for a series of laps in the middle of the 80km leg.

Angert’s blistering 1:40:41 bike split meant he was still in contention when he set out on the run.

Exceptional pace from several other athletes saw Angert slip back on the final leg but finishing 13th in a time of 3:08:14 was a sign of the significant progress he has made during his short time as a pro.

The result at Daytona helped him to #22 in the PTO World Rankings, and Florian was understandably delighted with his performance.

“What a race. Super happy. [I] finally raced with confidence and heart.

“Running felt great, got passed by some serious runners and came home in 13th.

“I take a lot of confidence out of this race and into the training for 2021. Great experience and an awesome race I will remember.”

Here are the ‘Weapons of Choice’ that allowed ‘Flo’ to thrive in Daytona, and record one of his best results to date:

Swim

Wetsuit: Sailfish G-Range
Speedsuit: Sailfish Rebel Pro
Trisuit: Cube SLT

Bike

Bike frame: Cube Aerium C68 SLT
Frame size: L
Aero Bars: Sync Ergonomics
Front wheel: Zipp 858 TL
Rear Wheel: Zipp Super 9 TL
Front tyre: Schwalbe Pro One TT
Rear tyre: Schwalbe Pro One TT
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: SRAM AXS 1X
Power meter: Quarq
Crank length: 170mm
Pedals: Speedplay
Cleat System: Speedplay
Gearing: 52 10-28
Saddle: Gebiomized Stride
Hydration System: Cube Inbuilt

Run

Shoes: New Balance Fuelcell RC Elite
Eyewear: Oakley

The post Weapon of Choice || Florian Angert appeared first on PTO.

The Brit finished 13th at the Daytona International Speedway®, showcasing her cycling prowess on the way to a reward of €11,000.

A three-time IRONMAN 70.3 winner at the elite level, the Daytona format looked suited to Morrison’s style and it showed for large portions of the race.

A 26:53 split in the swim left her with a bit of work to do on the bike – and she duly delivered. The 33-year-old surged through the field with an outstanding performance on two wheels.

The Brit’s split of 1:51:24 was only bettered by eventual winner Paula Findlay and Lisa Norden.

Morrison’s phenomenal display on the bike lifted the #37  in the PTO World Rankings into the top three heading out of T2.

Unfortunately for Morrison, her pace on the bike took its toll on the run as she dropped back down the field on the back of a 1:15:55 run split. That $11,000 in prize money though will no doubt lessen any disappointment.

“The race was my visualisation in a nutshell. Swim strong and brave, Bike beautifully and hey what’s wrong with rolling the dice holding 50mile TT Watts? And run your socks off… but leave the socks off, every second will count!”

Morrison certainly rolled those dice, and she did so with the help of her ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Wetsuit: Zone3 Vanquish
Speedsuit: Zone3
Trisuit: Endura Custom

Bike

Bike frame: Scott Plasma 5
Frame size: S
Aero Bars: Drag2Zero
Front wheel: Enve 7
Rear Wheel: Drag2Zero Disc
Front tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speeds
Rear tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speeds
Tyre and Tube type: Front = Tubeless, Back = Tubular
Component Groupset: SRAM Red AXS
Power meter: Quarq
Head unit / Computer: Wahoo
Crank length: 167.5mm
Helmet: Drag2Zero/Endura custom aero CID
Pedals: Look Keo
Cleat System: Look
Cycling shoes: Scott
Gearing: 50T 10-28
Saddle: ISM
Hydration System: Scott inbuilt

Run

Shoes: Nike
Sports Watch: Garmin
Eyewear: Oakley

The post Weapon of Choice || Kimberley Morrison appeared first on PTO.

Heading into the race at the famous Daytona International Speedway®, the American’s prowess over the middle-distance certainly made her a candidate for success.

A seven-time IRONMAN 70.3 podium finisher, Doehla had her eyes on the mammoth prize pool for the event – the largest ever put together for a professional triathlon.

Doehla produced a swim split of 26:10 as she came out of the water on the periphery of the top 20. “I think I was most proud of my swim, for getting out hard and in the fray, finding fast feet, and then hanging on for dear life,” she posted online after the race.

She then produced a solid bike split of 1:58:35 to close in on the top 10. Unfortunately, a “rookie mistake” saw her, in her own words, “eat pavement” going into T2.

The American gained further places on the run during her 1:07:33 – the fourth fastest run in the entire field – showcasing elite pacing throughout the race to ensure she finished in the prize money.

“11th place and 2nd American in a star-studded field at the PTO and CHALLENGEDAYTONA® Championships was beyond my expectations,” Doehla commented on her Instagram page.

An outstanding performance from the 34-year-old during the PTO 2020 Championship, and for those asking these were her ‘Weapons of Choice’:

Swim

Goggles: Speedo
Wetsuit: Roka Maverick
Speedsuit: Roka Viper

Bike

Bike frame: Scott Plasma Premium
Frame size: S
Aero Bars: Drag 2 Zero
Front wheel: ZIPP NSW 454
Rear Wheel: ZIPP Super 9 Disc
Front tyre: Continental Grand Prix TT
Rear tyre: Continental GP 5000
Tyre and Tube type: Clincher
Component Groupset: Shimano Ultegra Di2
Power meter: Power2Max NG eco
Head unit / Computer: Garmin Edge 520
Crank length: 155mm
Helmet: S-Works McLaren TT
Pedals: Shimano Ultegra
Cleat System: Shimano
Cycling shoes: Bont Zero+
Gearing: 54/42
Saddle: Cobb JOF 55
Hydration System: Profile Design Plasma 5 aero bottle & Elite crono XY

Run

Shoes: Nike Vaporfly Next %
Sports Watch: Garmin Forerunner 945

The post Weapon of Choice || Alissa Doehla appeared first on PTO.

The 2019 Royal Windsor Triathlon winner was competitive across all three disciplines as he registered an impressive time of 3:07:57 for the 100km race, securing $13,000 in prize money.

The British athlete stayed in touch with top ten athletes throughout the event, with his swift swim time of 22:35 setting the tone for his consistent display.

Despite being one of the lesser-experienced athletes in a star-studded field, Davis never looked out of place and climbed up to seventh position after clocking a time of 1:40:57 on the bike leg.

Davis, who finished second at IRONMAN 70.3 Gdynia in September 2020, was momentarily in line to go one better in Florida as he briefly took first position during the run.

After eventually slipping back slightly on the final few laps – completing the 18km run in 1:02:18 to finish 12th – Davis admitted he felt some slight regret – even if his result exceeded expectations.

“This moment was quite special (taking the lead),” he wrote on social media. “I’d said before the race I’d be happy with a top 20. 12th position however feels so bittersweet.”

“After being in that position, to mess it up will take me a few days to get over.”

Davis however acknowledged his impressive performance against some of the strongest triathletes in the world.

“I had one of those magical days,” he wrote. “I didn’t let myself think who I was riding with.”

Here are Davis’ ‘Weapons of Choice’ that contributed to such an accomplished performance in Daytona:

Swim

Goggles: Zone3 Vapour
Wetsuit: Zone 3 Vanquish
Trisuit: Zone 3 Aeroforce X
Sports Watch: Garmin Forerunner 30

Bike

Bike frame: Felt IA Disc
Frame size: 54
Aero Bars: Devox
Front wheel: Parcours Chrono
Rear Wheel: Parcours Disc
Front tyre: Continental GP 5000
Rear tyre: Continental GP 5000
Tyre and Tube type: Latex tubes
Component Groupset: Shimano
Power meter: Look Exact Pedals
Head unit / Computer: Garmin Edge 520 plus
Crank length: 175mm
Helmet: Giro Aerohead
Pedals: Look Exact
Cleat System: Shimano
Cycling shoes: Fizik R3
Gearing: 53-11
Saddle: Cobb Delta P
Hydration System: Xlab Torpedo Versa

Run

Shoes: Hoka One One Carbon X
Eyewear: Sungod Vulcan

The post Weapon of Choice || Thomas Davis appeared first on PTO.

The German posted an overall time of 3:07:45 in what he described on Facebook as “a tight and fun race” – one which has whetted his appetite for more of the same in 2021.

“Definitely [it’s] a unique race venue and great experience,” he added. “[I’m] excited to see more events like this from the PTO.

“Well done PTO for setting a new benchmark for organizing and broadcasting a triathlon event and taking care of us professionals.

“Finally, we are doing triathlon again and it’s not a runners’ race, like some of the previous championship races.

“Who thought there would be more than 20 guys within 1min starting into the run – and from 1st to 10th just 2:39min in the end?”

Dreitz acknowledges he needs to work on his swim after registering 24:41 at Daytona and better his performance on the bike, in which he clocked 1:39:19, as well as improving his transitions. “Every second counts – but it‘s worth it,” he said.

Here are the Weapons of Choice that he will be employing to make those improvements:

Swim

Goggles: Zoggs Predator Mirror
Wetsuit: Sailfish Ultimate IPS
Speedsuit: Sailfish Rebel Pro 2
Trisuit: Renerosa Custom
Sports Watch: Garmin Fenix 6

Bike

Bike frame: Wilier Triestina Turbine
Frame size: M
Aero Bars: Profile Design Aeria
Front wheel: Swiss Side Hadron Ultimate 800
Rear Wheel: Swiss Side Hadron Disc
Front tyre: Wolfpack Race Cotton
Rear tyre: Wolfpack Race Cotton
Tyre and Tube type: Clincher
Component Groupset: Shimano/ KMC DLC 11 Chain
Bearings: Ceramic Speed
Power meter: SRM
Head unit / Computer: Garmin Edge 130 Plus
Crank length: 172.5mm
Helmet: Rudy Project The Wing
Pedals: Time Xpro 12
Cleat System: Iclic
Cycling shoes: Fizik Trnasiro Infinito
Gearing: 58 11-30
Saddle: Gebiomized Stride
Hydration System: Profile Design HSF/ Aeria Ultimate

Run

Shoes: ON Cloudboom Echo
Eyewear: Rudy Project Cutline
Headwear: Sailfish Running Cap
Socks: Sporcks Tri Love

The post Weapon of Choice || Andreas Dreitz appeared first on PTO.

Ranked 66th in the PTO World Rankings, she fought back in the second and third legs to clock a time of 3:35:07, and in the process overtook 2012 Olympic champion Nicola Spirig to take home $18,000 from the richest triathlon ever.

Placed 34th after the 2km swim, which she achieved in 27:42, the Sardinian climbed to 24th following the 80km bike ride, with a split of 1:56:32.

However, it was in the 18km run over the Daytona International Speedway® that she really came into her own, notching the sixth fastest time of 1:08:18.

“I’m so happy,” she said on Instagram. “The last 16 months I couldn’t race because of injury and a global pandemic.

“So, when I had the worst swim of my career at the PTO Championships, I just stayed positive and kept on pushing hard, because it’s a privilege doing this and overcoming a bad swim is not the end of the world.

“Eventually, I passed 10 athletes on the bike and 14 on the run, turning a bad start into a 9th place. Thank you to my wonderful coach, Bella Bayliss, and my amazing sponsors supporting me no matter what.”

These were her Weapons of Choice in the Daytona extravaganza:

Swim

Goggles: Jaked Blink
Wetsuit: Sailfish Ultimate IPS
Speedsuit: Sailfish Rebel
Trisuit: Bioracer aero

Bike

Bike frame: Scott Plasma
Frame size: XS
Aero Bars: Pro Missile Base Bar/ Custom Extensions by Orru
Front wheel: HED Jet Black 4
Rear Wheel: HED Jet Black 4
Front tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speed TLR 23″
Rear tyre: Vittoria Corsa Speed TLR 23″
Component Groupset: Shimano Di2 XTR & Dura Ace
Head unit / Computer: Garmin Edge 130
Helmet: Lazer Victor
Eyewear: Laxer integrated visor
Pedals: Shimano Dura Ace
Cycling shoes: Scott Tri Carbon
Hydration System: Custom
Gearing: 5GT Poweroval with 9-32 3T cassette
Saddle: Syncros Belcarra Tri

Run

Shoes: Nike Vaporfly Next %
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo Tickr
Eyewear: Oakley Radar EV

The post Weapon of Choice || Elisabetta Curridori appeared first on PTO.

Her reaction on the finishing line – labelled by the PTO’s Twitter feed as “possibly the best red-carpet celebration of the year” – said it all as she spread her arms wide and shouted to the sky.

Despite being ranked #50 in the PTO World Rankings going into the race and producing what she later admitted was “a far from a perfect performance”, Fenella picked up a cheque for $23,000 after posting a time of 3:33:42.

“Trying to reflect on a race is always hard, but this one not so much,” she said.

“Swim went to plan, Lucy Hall pulling me around for lap 1. [I] then made the sensible decision of settling into a relaxed pace for lap 2.

“Bike went to plan power-wise, but I can confirm flat races are hard!! Lots to still learn and improve but enjoyed every lap.”

The run was a major challenge for Fenella, as she had torn her calf on a long run four weeks previously and was only able to aquajog until a week before the event.

“What it shows is this can be done, and I have learnt a lot from the process. I suppose if there was a what if… it was with the run, as this was not my best.”

Fenella says the PTO 2020 Championship left her with “fire in my belly for 2021” and these will be her Weapons of Choice for the year ahead:

Swim

Goggles: Huub
Wetsuit: Huub Agilis
Speedsuit: Huub
Trisuit: Huub

Bike

Bike frame: Reap
Frame size: S
Aero Bars: USE
Front wheel: Parcours 50mm
Rear Wheel: Parcours Disc
Front tyre: Continental GP 5000 25mm
Rear tyre: Continental GP 5000 25mm
Tyre and Tube type: Tubeless
Component Groupset: Shimano Di2
Power meter: 4iiii
Head unit / Computer: Garmin 520
Crank length: 165mm
Helmet: Giro
Pedals: Speedplay Aero
Cycling shoes: Mavic
Gearing: 56 11-25
Saddle: ISM 1.1

Run

Shoes: On Running Cloudboom
Heart Rate Monitor: Wahoo Tickr
Eyewear: Oakley

The post Weapon of Choice || Fenella Langridge appeared first on PTO.