Wild Racing in the Wild West

Originally, I thought I’d be writing this pre-race blog on the way back from racing in New Caledonia. My plan was to compete in the Noumea Triathlon last weekend, but in the end I pulled the plug because of a niggling back issue and yes, I listened to the professionals who advised in not racing. So that has given me time to focus on Busselton 70.3 and make sure I’m 100% race fit and ready to go. ‘C’est la vie!’ as they say in New Caledonia.

Back to Busselton
Rewind 12 months and I didn’t think I was even going to get to the start of Busselton 2014. Last year, in the lead up to the race I was sick and had the whole week off training. As it turned out, on the day I actually felt pretty rested, had a great race and ended up on the top of the podium. So I’m heading into this year’s Busselton 70.3 as the reigning champ.

As always though, there’s no room for over-confidence – the field for the event is really strong. In fact, the organisers are saying it’s the strongest field they’ve ever had for Busselton 70.3. There’s no doubt there some big hitters in the line up- my old mate Sticksy, Appo (Sam Appleton who came 3rd in 2014), Alex Reithmeier (2nd in 2014) and James Cunnama (all the way from South Africa) will all be there. Add into the mix veteran Kiwi triathlete, Terenzo Bozzone, and you know it’s going to be a hard-fought, hard-won race. I may be going into the race with Number 1 on my front, but there’ll definitely be a target on my back. It will certainly make for some good racing.

Hustle and bustle
It’s always good to head over to the ‘Wild West’ and the event at Busselton has just got bigger and bigger as time has gone on. The crowd is always huge and vocal, which is awesome for the competitors. Media coverage is good and there’s plenty of pre-race action.

The course is quick and it’s a great place to compete. Last year the swim conditions on Geographe Bay were glassy- I’m hoping it will be the same this time around. The cycle leg will be fast and furious and then the race finishes with 3 laps out and back on Geographe Bay Rd. There’s plenty of opportunity to keep an eye on the competition, which will be especially handy given how competitive this field is.

I’m looking forward to defending my title and hopefully hanging on to the course record for another year. And if you’re there, come and join me for the Q&A session on Friday arvo at Chat with the Pros in the Main Marquee. Should be fun.

Good luck to everyone who is competing. Go hard and I’ll see you at the finish!