Dramatic win for Henri at world ITU series

DURBAN North triathlete Henri Schoeman built on his Rio Olympic bronze medal success with his first World Triathlon Series victory at the ITU World Triathlon Grand Final in Cozumel. Schoeman crossed the finish in what was a dramatic finish as Great Britain’s Jonathan Brownlee missed out on his second world championship title after his brother Alistair had to help him across the finish line.

The former Oakridge College pupil passed both Brownlees in the final 500 metres, as Schoeman bypassed Jonathan Brownlee (GBR), who struggled in the heat, and Alistair Brownlee (GBR), who had stopped to help his brother over the line. Schoeman went on to win in a time of 1 hour, 46 minutes, 50 seconds, a full 18 seconds clear of both Brownlee brothers who crossed the line together.

The race was run in searing conditions and the high drama of the finish led the Spanish Triathlon Federation to lodge an appeal against illegal assistance however the International Triathlon Union competition jury unanimously overruled it.

“That just happened. It was such an amazing finish to the year. I hope Johnny is okay, he was really strong out there. It’s an honour to race against the brothers and they are both phenomenal athletes and great role models. I’d just like to thank everyone for the crazy support. To end off fourth on world rankings is amazing,” he said.

Schoeman ended fourth overall on the ITU standings with 3 160 points and fellow South African, Richard Murray fifth on 2975 points.

In this rich vain of form, the 24-year-old looks to be a strong contender for the ITU series next season.