Sankt Wendel to host ETU Powerman Middle Distance Duathlon European Championships on Sunday.
Three weeks after the ETU Duathlon European Championships over the Standard Distance in Soria, attention turns to the non-drafting duathlon format, courtesy of the Sankt Wendel ETU Powerman Middle Distance Duathlon European Championships. Situated in the Saarland state of Germany, Sankt Wendel has a long history in the sport, having hosted the ITU Duathlon World Championships way back in 1998.
The Powerman Middle Distance format comprises of a 10km run, 60km cycle, 10km run, and both Elite and Age-Group athletes will race over the same courses. The start/finish of the race is based in the Bosenbach Stadium, and the both the first and second run will comprise of two laps of 5km. The cycle leg will comprise of three laps of 20km each.
I have been at the top end of the Age-Group Duathlon scene for a few years, but my running has improved to be considered for the Elite team, something that I had never considered possible previously
Heading the British Elite entry is three-time and reigning ITU Powerman Long Distance Duathlon Champion, Emma Pooley. Emma has dominated in Zofingen for the past three seasons over the longer 10km / 150km / 30km format, and in Germany she will be facing the 2016 European Champion, Nina Brenn (SUI), who won the title 12 months ago in Copenhagen. Joining Emma in the Elite British female entry is Dionne Allen, winner of the 25-29 division last year.
The top three British Elite male finishers from 12 months ago, Lee Piercy (12th), Julian Lings (14th) and Peter Ellis (18th) all return, to be joined by Ben Price who will be making his debut in the Elite team. Looking ahead to the event, Ben told us:
“I have been at the top end of the Age-Group Duathlon scene for a few years, but my running has improved to be considered for the Elite team, something that I had never considered possible previously. I'm excited and nervous about racing. It's an honour to wear the Elite suit, but will obviously be a huge jump up.
"I'm going to have to go hard on the run and prepare to suffer on the bike like never before. I've trained hard (or as hard as a full time job, marriage and two young children allow!), and mustn't worry too much about the result - after all, we do these things because it is fun!”
In Copenhagen last year the British Age-Group team collected a haul of 23 medals, eight of which were Gold. Among those returning to seek more success are Elidh Yates (F30-34), Eleanor Robinson (70-74) and Chris Kilburn (M30-34). Another strong team will be expecting to gain podium success this Sunday.
British Elite athletes at the Sankt Wendel ETU Powerman Middle Distance European Championships
Women
Emma Pooley
Dionne Allen
Men
Lee Piercy
Peter Ellis
Julian Lings
Ben Price
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Race Website: Visit here
