Ireland’s Morrison 2nd in Japanese World Cup

Aileen Morrison has strengthened her reputation as one of triathlon’s top international competitors with a 2nd place finish at the Ishigaki ITU World Cup in Japan.



The Derry native was feeling optimistic coming into the race and had a focus on putting a solid performance together in all 3 disciplines.



Morrison started the season with a 2nd place finish in the Quarteira European Cup in Portugal after she pulled out a blistering 35 minute 10k run.



Morrison’s 18mins 4secs 1,500m swim saw her exit the water in 2nd place. A smooth 26sec transition had Morrison onto the 40km bike course in the lead pack.



Onto the 10km run and Morrison exited T2 towards the back of the field. “I wasn’t in a good position coming out of T2 but I took it nice and steady and tried to catch up.” Morrison said.



She quickly moved through the field to battle with Brault of Canada for 2nd position. “We were playing tactics a little bit and it was a case of sheltering from the wind and seeing who would do more work.”



Coming into the final lap Morrison had the better legs and kicked on in the final few hundred meters to take her second podium finish of the season.



“I’m pleased with silver. Obviously a little disappointed I couldn’t have a chance at the gold but Kathy had an amazing race and she ran really well so fair play to her.”



“I wish I had of been with her coming out of T2 and maybe I’d have had a better chance.”



Kathy Tremblay won in a time of 2:05:38 with Morrison 20 seconds back and Sarah-Anne Brault in 3rd.