As the curtain falls on 2024, it's time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Canadian triathletes who have shone brightly on the global stage. Despite being a nation with a smaller population, Canada's presence in the triathlon world is anything but small, spanning from sprint distances to the grueling lengths of ultra-distance races. This year, several performances have captured the hearts and imaginations of sports enthusiasts everywhere. Let's dive into some of the highlights that have defined Canadian triathlon this year.
Lionel Sanders' Triumphant Return at Oceanside
Lionel Sanders, a name synonymous with resilience in the triathlon community, has long been a force in Ironman and 70.3 circuits. However, after a series of performances in 2023 that didn't meet his high standards, Sanders took a break, promising not to return until he felt he had evolved as an athlete. True to his word, he made a spectacular comeback at the 70.3 Oceanside in April 2024. Despite previous victories here in 2016 and 2017, this year's race posed new challenges with a formidable lineup of competitors including American star Sam Long and Belgium's Jelle Geens. Sanders rose to the occasion, clinching a massive win with a race time of 3:46:24, thanks to his blistering pace on the bike and a swift run. This victory was a springboard for a successful season, leading to wins at 70.3 Mont Tremblant and Ironman Canada in Penticton, B.C.
Jen Annett's Ultraman Dominance
Jen Annett, traditionally known for her prowess in Ironman races, took a giant leap in 2024 by stepping up to the Ultraman series. Her debut at Ultraman Canada in July was nothing short of spectacular. Over the course of this three-day event, athletes cover a staggering 515 kilometers, starting with a 10-kilometer swim and a 145-kilometer bike ride on the first day, followed by a 276-kilometer bike ride on the second day, and culminating in a double marathon (84 kilometers) on the third day. Annett not only smashed the previous world record for women by over an hour with a time of 21 hours, 39 minutes, and 32 seconds, but she also topped the overall standings, securing her spot at the Ultraman World Championships in Hawaii. There, she continued her record-breaking spree, setting new benchmarks on the bike and run, and capturing the overall title with a time of 23 hours, four minutes, and 56 seconds.
Tyler Mislawchuk's Gritty Performance in Paris
Tyler Mislawchuk, a stalwart in Canada's short-course triathlon scene, arrived at the Paris Olympics with a fierce determination. Having debuted at the Rio Olympics in 2016 with a commendable 15th place finish and repeating the same at the Tokyo Games, Mislawchuk was hungry for more. In Paris, he was a strong contender for a medal, battling through the intense competition and heat. Although he ultimately fell short of the podium, his relentless spirit shone through as he crossed the finish line in ninth place, a testament to his tenacity and the proud fighting spirit of Canadian athletes.
These stellar performances are just a snapshot of the tenacity and skill that Canadian triathletes have brought to the world stage this year. Their achievements are not just personal victories but are also a source of national pride, inspiring the next generation of athletes in Canada and beyond. As we look back on these incredible feats, it's clear that the spirit of triathlon burns brightly in the hearts of these remarkable competitors.
What notable achievements did Lionel Sanders accomplish in 2024?
Lionel Sanders had an impressive 2024, winning the 70.3 Oceanside, 70.3 Mont Tremblant, and Ironman Canada in Penticton, B.C. He started his season with a win at the 70.3 Oceanside, where he finished with a time of 3:46:24, thanks to his exceptional performance on the bike and run segments.
What records did Jen Annett set in Ultraman competitions in 2024?
Jen Annett set multiple records in 2024 by moving up to Ultraman races. She completed Ultraman Canada with a time of 21 hours, 39 minutes, and 32 seconds, breaking the previous world best for females by an hour. At the Ultraman World Championships in Hawaii, she set new women’s Day 2 bike course and run records, as well as the overall course record with a time of 23 hours, four minutes, and 56 seconds.
How did Tyler Mislawchuk perform at the 2024 Paris Olympics?
Tyler Mislawchuk delivered a commendable performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, finishing in ninth place. He fought hard throughout the race, staying in contention for a medal into the running segment, but eventually faded slightly. Despite not medaling, his gritty performance was a source of pride for Canadians.
#CanadianTriathlon #TopPerformances2024
Source: https://triathlonmagazine.ca/racing/a-look-back-at-the-top-canadian-performances-of-2024/
Discover unique triathlon-themed merchandise, including stylish t-shirts, stickers, phone cases, and home decor - perfect for endurance sports enthusiasts and athletes. Shop now
