IRONMAN South Africa was a great start back into the race and a great opening to my 2019 season.

Even if my BIG African DREAM was not fulfilled with only a 5th place, I'm grateful and happy, because the race has sparked my racing fire ... I'm happy with full of love and the passion to be back! I think the people who watched the race live could feel that too.

But now in turn:

Port Elizabeth is nicknamed friendly and WINDY city. And since Sunday I know why? ;-)

Due to the wind and the waves the swim course in Nelson Mandela Bay was shortened to 1.6km. Unfortunately, because of the high waves I lost my orientation and thus some time on the lead females, Lucy Charles and Lauren Brandon, with a backlog of 4 minutes I came out of the water in 3rd position.

Along the breathtaking coast of the 180km bike leg, I had my very own race on my Quintana Roo PRsix Disc, not only having extremely strong bike legs, but found the chase to the front extremely fun.

With this emotion, joy and courage I (surprisingly) reached the two leading females, Lucy Charles and Lauren Brendon at km 100, where I took over the lead. I continued my own race from the front, reaching T2 with a lead of 3 minutes heading on to the final marathon.

Photos courtesy of James Mitchell, @jamesmitchell5

My legs were relatively tight while running and I found it hard to get into running rhythm. Unfortunately it did not get better during the race and the strong headwinds gave me difficulties. I had to let 4 athletes go past, where I finished 5th overall.

Even if I did not do everything right strategically in the race, I revived my 'Fighter Heart.' And for the first race of the season, my team and I are very satisfied. After it did not work out with the qualification for Kona, we must now reschedule the competition season. Maybe Plan B is better too.

IRONMAN South Africa was definitely an unforgettable adventure - and it was the people and the unbelievably magical mood before, during and after that races that have made this trip so unique!

Thank you South Africa and thank you to my TEAM, who accompany me every day and who give me strength and belief!

I'm looking forward to our next adventure.

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