With encouraging cheers from the spectators, the 2012 BC Summer Games triathlon came to a close today at South Surrey Pool, as athletes from across the province competed one last time.
The slight breeze and overcast skies were perfect conditions this morning for the 14 and 15-year-old athletes. They were forced to deal with wet weather on Friday as they completed both the Aquathlon and Duathlon.
“The hardest part about doing a triathlon is the mental state and pushing yourself beyond what your body wants to do,” said Vancouver’s Aimee Shannon (Vancouver-Squamish – Zone 5), referring to both personal obstacles she battles during every race as well as external factors like yesterday’s rain.
“It makes everything slippery, especially the bike,” said Burnaby’s Jennifer Shannon (Fraser River-Delta – Zone 4).
Delta native Michael Milic did not seem to be phased by the weather, winning all three triathlon events in the male division this week. The 14-year-old, who also has a passion for track and swimming, placed first in the Aquathlon, Duathlon and triathlon.
“I thought my transitions weren’t as good as they should be but my bike kept me in [the race] and I had a good run,” said Milic.
He did admit to having some concern before the race, stating he’s not the best on the bike and worried he may fall behind. However, that wasn’t the case as Milic was a close second behind then leader Ross Graham as the two transitioned from the bike to the three kilometre run.
“Transitions are really important,” said Milic. “If you don’t have a good one, you’re going to lose seconds you won’t be able to get back and never catch anyone in front of you.”
Content with his performance, the Zone 4 triple threat went in confident and is proud of his performances this weekend.
“Overall it was a solid race and… a great experience being able to participate in an event like the Summer Games,” he said.
Milic said the time away from the competition playing games and watching movies with friends, is as memorable as his three first place finishes.
The girls competed shortly after the boys, with Vancouver Island-Central Coast (Zone 6) leaving a strong impression.
Holly Henry of Victoria placed first in the triathlon this morning and performed well in both the Aquathlon and Duathlon yesterday, even though she did not place in either event.
Victoria’s Farisha Arensen (Zone 6) placed first in the Aquathlon with a time of 9:11. Arensen also won the Duathlon, followed by West Vancouver’s Grace Thompson (Zone 5) who placed second.
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(special to Black Press)