Rhodes poised for third title

23/02/2003

JUST two days ago, Langkawi was a quiet and tranquil place, seeing as it
is the off-peak season.
But everything changed yesterday as 417 health freaks descended on the
island and started swimming, cycling and running. The activity was non-
stop.
But as the Ironman 2003 Langkawi buntings and banners fluttered in the
breeze, tension among the triathletes was reaching fever pitch.
The overall number of competitors has grown to 412 with hosts Malaysia
having a 97-strong contingent, mostly made up of Armed Forces personnel.
The triathletes live a Spartan life, which abhors smoking and the
consumption of alcohol, but when it comes to meal times, every triathlete
can consume a quarter of a horse. It is strictly lights out at 8pm at the
official hotel.
During a photo session for the 34 professional woman and men triathletes
yesterday, one athlete wondered out loud who would be the champion this
year?
Two-time Langkawi Ironman champion Bryan Rhodes of New Zealand answered
tongue-in-cheek: "I don't know, but I know for sure that all those present
today (yesterday) will be finishing behind me!"
Rhodes clocked a blistering 8:43:54 in his maiden outing in 2001 for the
title, and last year, he lowered it to an unbelievable 8:10:35 in a race
which requires one to finish a 3.8km swim, 180.2km cycle route and a
42.2km run inside 17 hours.
Since Rhodes is confident of completing a hattrick even with former
World No 1 Luc van Lierde in the race, the only question remaining is
whether he will be able to dip below the magical eight-hour mark which has
only been achieved by two triathletes around the world, and one of them is
van Lierde.
The women's race will feature all three former Langkawi champions -
Susan Peter of Australia (2000), Belinda Cheney of Australia (2001) and
Danielle Florens of Mauritius (2002).
Susan and Belinda have made remarkable recoveries from major injuries.
Susan suffered a broken back while Belinda was paralysed while pursuing
their passions.
Total prize money for the Langkawi Ironman is US50,000 (RM190,000).
Winner of the men's category gets RM32,000 while the women's pockets
RM32,000.
(END)