With 2013 marking their transition into long-distance racing with remarkable success, both Tim Don and Will Clarke have already proved they are a force to be reckoned with, fending off veteran Ironman athletes to finish in podium positions; Don recently came 3rd in Ironman 70.3 South Africa, whilst Clarke took 2nd place at Ironman 70.3 St. Croix.
Amongst the 20 strong British Pro men’s line up at Ironman 70.3 UK is three time winner Fraser Cartmell, who has the advantage of course knowledge and experience on his side, whilst Tom Lowe’s inaugural entry to the event, will have four time Ironman Champion Chrissie Wellington cheering him on as his secret weapon.
Ahead of the race Tim Don said “I’m really looking forward to the race. Having raced ITU distance since 1994, I’m loving my entry into 70.3 and embracing this all new experience. 70.3 is all about pacing myself over the 4 1/2 hours, listening to my body and not reacting to what other athletes are doing. Exmoor is a beautiful spot - it’s going to be a great race and I’d love to see an all GB podium although I think the course is going to be the toughest competition for me” *
The women’s Pro field also promises an exciting race between reigning Champion Eimear Mullan and Scotland’s Cat Morrison, whose successful return from injury this year has already seen her being crowned Champion at Ironman 70.3 St. Croix. Putting the UK based athletes to the test will be Germany’s Kristin Moeller who won Ironman Lanzarote last weekend along with previous 70.3 UK podium placed Simone Braendli from Switzerland.
The Pro field will form part of the sell out 1700 athletes entered in one of the world’s most iconic triathlon events, being the first 70.3 staged in the world. Now held at Wimbleball on the edge of Exmoor’s National Park it plays host to a truly stunning yet gruelling course.
Starting with a 1.2 mile swim in Wimbleball Lake, the athletes will have to embark on the two lap 56 mile bike course - which entails 52 hills and 1190m of climbing, eased only by the excitement and buzz of the fantastic crowd support. The final half marathon adds to this iconic triathlon event with its 13.1 mile mixed terrain run course, comprising three laps each with its very own leg bursting hill climb.
For further information on Ironman 70.3 UK please visit www.ironmanuk.com
*The full pre race interivew with Tim Don will be on facebook.com/ironman70.3uk from 22nd May.
