ENGLAND’S Jodie Stimpson won the women’s triathlon gold at the Commonwealth Games yesterday, the first medal of the multi-sport event.
Jodie, a silver medal winner in the World Triathlon Series in 2013, sprinted clear with 400 metres remaining of the final 10km run to win a thrilling race that started with a 1.5km swim in and a 40km cycle around Strathclyde Loch.
Canada’s Kirsten Sweetland claimed silver, with England’s Vicky Holland taking bronze in warm, sunny conditions, with water temperatures of 20.9 degrees Celsius and air of 21.8.
With a lap to go of the gruelling run, Jodie was joined by Kirsten and fancied Australian Emma Jackson, who had done well to make up a 25-second deficit from the swimming, in a lead group of five.
“I was nervous about the swim but I had an awesome swim actually,” said Jodie.
“The race was brutal and the bike was definitely a challenge. It was important to be aware and sensible.
“Our team tactic was just to look out for each other, which we did,” she said, adding: “There were a couple of fishes there that I wanted to get away from.”
Holland and New Zealander Andrea Hewitt, a bronze medallist in the 2006 Games in Melbourne, stayed in the mix as Northern Ireland’s Aileen Reid fell off the increasing pace.
As Kirsten ramped up for the final push, Hewitt and Holland struggled, and then Kirsten was left gasping for air as the 25-year-old English triathlete accelerated away for the line in brilliant sunshine.
“I was always gunning for a medal. Obviously I wanted gold but I am happy for anything,” said Kirsten.
“During the race I felt okay. I didn’t really feel bad but I didn’t feel great either. On the run I tried to stick on Jodie’s shoulder, which paid off.”
Triathlon is returning to the Commonwealth Games programme for the first time since Melbourne 2006, having made its debut at Manchester 2002. AFP