3RD AT NORTH AMERICAN 70.3 CHAMPIONSHIP
Another top result from Michael Weiss at Ironman 70.3 St. George in the beautiful state of Utah: After two second places, at 70.3 Campeche and 70.3 Texas, the long-time Colorado-based Austrian finished third and could proved once again that he also belongs to the world class of half distance triathlon racing. The victory went to Canadian Ironman World Champion 2017 runner-up Lionel Sanders in 3:41:11, around two minutes faster than Michi. Only 36 seconds before the Lower Austrian, the Ironman World Champion from 2014, Sebastian Kienle (GER), crossed the finish line. It took Weiss 3:43:13 to one of the hardest half-distance triathlons in the world.
In perfect conditions with an air temperature of mid-60s (18C), the gun went off at 6:50am. The swim took place in the 62F degree cold Sand Hollow Reservoir, which is located about 16mi East of St. George. The four-time Ironman Champion had a solid, but slower than expected 1.2mi swim. "This time I was not able to catch the right group and therefore had to swim a lot by myself. However, thanks to my new Blueseventy Helix wetsuit I got out of the water in 26:45 as 13th and can only be satisfied.", reflects Weiss.
On the challenging 56mi long bike course with almost 9300ft elevation gain, the Austrian "Überbiker" could show all his class, although even 365 average Watts on the SRM PowerMeter were not enough for the fastest time. "Just like at 70.3 Campeche I opted for the Diamondback Serios with a HED 3 front wheel and rear disc. The beloved Andean is already on the way to Austria for the upcoming competitions in Europe." Weiss arrived in T2 in 4th position behind the Sanders /Kienle duo and young Australian talent Sam Appleton, posting the 3rd fastest bike split of the day.
In impressive 1:10:41 Michi could complete the 13.1mi run, including 1100ft of elevation gain at increasing temperatures, clocking the fastest half marathon of the day. "My current running shape is remarkable. Goal is being able to use the speed of the half marathons in a full Ironman," says Weiss in consideration of racing a full Ironman distance in near future. Which competition this will be shall get decided soon. "I only shift my attention to the next race, for staying focused on the upcoming tasks," says the veteran, who is more or less "self-coached". Only trusted experts are part of his team as advisors and for providing new input to Weiss' training and race schedule.
Matter of fact is that Michi won't be able to train a lot over the days due traveling to Europe and its preparations. After having been living in Colorado Springs, CO for several years, he will be moving back home to Gumpoldskirchen, Austria.
Photo: IRONMAN
