I was able to have a week's stay in perth, seeing my family again after a year. Training went pretty well for the week, despite the time differences one had to quickly adapt to. Mooloolaba on the Queensland Coast was home of the first world cup of the year. 5 star treatment from the BG staff since arriving enabled me to experience the life of a 'pro' development team! Directed by Libby Burrell, physio-Diana, Bike Mechanic-Jeff, both from the USA and Craig Redman, Jaime Turner were the coaches.
....the race..... 1.50pm saw the 70 men take to the sea and create a massive washine machine. After the first usual waterpolo fight in the first 200m, i settled...wait, probably a waterpolo fight for 1500m.. was definitely the most physical swim to date and ended coming out near the rear of the field, something am not used to. Top Aussie's were around me and even world no. 1 came out in the middle of the pack so knew it wasnt a customary swim by many. Onto the 7 lap bike course (2 hills & chicane per lap) made it technical and challenging. Ours small pack of 5 made it to the next 5, and we worked for about 2 laps to catch the large front group, making us about 65 large (spot the yellow PowerBar water bottle in the pic)! Dangerous in the narrow bits and easy on the flat bits! I was happy to be in the race at this stage, knowing numerous past Olympians were around me. Onto the 4 lap run (2 hills per lap) made it pretty challenging. I had a pretty good effort ended up in 53rd, not bad given the field and quality field.
next stop, New Plymouth: New Zealand....
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