Rotorua teenagers dominate beginners event but the big stories are further down the field

The Beginners Triathlon began proceedings on day two of the World Tri Festival in New Plymouth today and it was the youngsters who dominated.

Local Government might be commissioning studies into the effects of Rotorua’s sulphur smelling air but clearly it is doing something right for Sam Osbourne and Cati Pearson, both of whom came home first in the sprint distance event.

Sixteen year old Osbourne crossed the line first for the boys with the finesse of a seasoned professional.

“I’m a bit sore but I’ve done a fair few triathlons before.”

The Western Heights High School student was happy with his performance and was looking forward to enjoying the rest of the weekend.

“I’m down here to watch the pros race,” said Osbourne in reference to tomorrow’s ITU BG World Cup races.

Cati Pearson (17) who led the girls home has been competing in triathlons for two years after becoming involved at school.

“It’s amazing I’ve finally won one.’’

She is now focusing on doing well in the New Zealand Schools Triathlon Championships. The event will be held at Lake Karapiro on the 12th of April 2008.

There is an obvious rivalry among New Zealand’s up-and-coming triathletes.

John Glanville (16) from Taupo-Nui-A-Tia College came second in the men’s race, using the event as a warm up for Glanville in preparation for the National Secondary schools competition.

“I enjoy racing against these guys. It’s really competitive. I’m poked...nah I’m good.’’

Meanwhile one of the biggest cheers of the day was reserved for local sporting identity Howie Tamati. The CEO of Sport Taranaki was coerced into competing by Tri NZ some months ago and despite not being able to swim when he said yes, he loved every minute of his first triathlon.

The first-time triathlete has been something of a figure head for locals, paving the way for other new comers to also take up the challenge at Ngamotu beach.

Tamati had a busy week leading up to the race but the hours of training paid off for the former Rugby League hooker.

“I didn’t really get the rest that I needed. But I did better than I thought. I actually finished and I didn’t walk. I really enjoyed the swimming side of things.’’

Tamati would definitely do it again and is already looking for his next goal.

For many taking part the event was taking it to the next level in terms of their personal achievements.

Celine Filbee, from Hawera, has competed in the shorter Women’s Triathlon three times.

“That’s a much shorter race. This is a step up and I’m pleased because I’m not hurting.’’

For 21-year-old Dani Bardell finishing the race was a personal achievement.

“I feel pretty tired but pretty ecstatic that I pushed through. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do it. I wanted to see how far I could push through death!”

Thankfully Dardell didn’t quite push that far!

First timer Les Elliot (36) from New Plymouth didn’t do much training for the event except for a couple of weeks in the pool.

“I feel good but I got cramp on the bike.’’

It cost him a few positions but he made up for it on the run. Like Tamati Elliot was pleased he managed to finish and would have another go.

“Going the distance was the best thing about it.’’

Complete results will be posted at www.triathlon.org.nz later today.

 

 

The World Tri Festival

New Plymouth

April 4 to 6

 

Including the ITU BG World Cup for elite men and women

Sunday April 6

Elite Women Midday

Elite Men 2.30