Naudè and O’Leary win inaugural Jozi Triathlon

Rudolf Naudè continued his fine start to the triathlon season with a victory in the standard distance during the inaugural SEESA Jozi Triathlon on October 21, as the Vanderbijlpark resident powered home on the run to hold off Matthew Greer and Philip Sergeant.

Naudè beat the wind, choppy water and tough course at the CR Swart Dam and Ebotse Estate and Country Club to clinch the men’s title, clocking 01:59:13 to beat second-placed Greer and Sergeant, who was in third place.

He swam the 1.5km double-lapper in 28:47. On the bike, he made the most of the cycling-friendly conditions, despite the potholes, to complete the 40km course in 49.29. On the run, he completed the 10km dash in 40:56 to finish the race inside two hours.

“The wind was tough, especially during the swim, but it felt good. The cycle was nice and safe. Thanks to the marshals for helping me navigate the potholes. I am happy about that. The run was tough. We were on a golf course with no shade, and the wind made it difficult,” he said.

He explained he had to use his experience to find his way through some difficult points in the water, especially after turning on the first buoy to face the wind.

“It was tough because the course was a little compromised because of the waves. It was like a mini sea, but I have been doing this for quite some time, so I am happy with how I did and used my experience to get through it.”

The experienced triathlete said he was delighted with his sub-two hours finish, adding that everything went according to plan.

“I have come back to racing after a few weeks off. It went according to plan today. I trained hard in the last few weeks. I am excited about how my season is going so far.”

Women

In the women’s race, Debbie O’Leary excelled in the full distance to beat Boksburg resident Melissa Meyer and Kim du Plessis to win the women’s race in 02:35:10.

O’Leary swam the 1.5km course at 39:03 and completed the 40km cycling at 01:07:54. On the run, she clocked a quick-fire 48:12 to land the women’s title.

Second-placed Meyer finished in 02:38:02 for the silver. She said she was happy with her race, despite the wind and choppy water making it seem like they were racing on the coast.

“It was very nice but windy. The vibe is awesome. The weather is hot, which is what everyone prefers. I will come back again next year,” she said.

The event attracted a full field of triathletes who participated in the standard, sprint and super-sprint races and the relay team events.

Alessandro Fanicchi and Natalie Roberton won the men’s and women’s sprint event while Damion Gomez and Benonian Amy Jackson powered home first to win the men’s and women’s super-sprint race.

The organiser Glen Gore expressed his happiness with the turnout and despite a few negative remarks from dissatisfied participants, he explained they learnt a lot.

“Our concern was the safety of the cyclists on the road, but the team we had today did a great job. I am super happy with the numbers. There is a lot we can fix with the organising to make it a little better. Hopefully, the people are happy and will come back next year,” Gore said.

Gore thanked the residents for supporting the event.

“These kinds of events are more for entry-level participants. With the distances, we cater to everyone, especially with the relay, where everyone can take part.”

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