In a turn of events that's as disappointing as it is unforeseen, British triathlon star Jess Learmonth will not compete in the much-anticipated T100 London event slated for July 27th. A hip issue, which surfaced just days before the race, has sidelined the Olympic gold medalist, casting a shadow over what was poised to be a stellar comeback on her home turf.
Jess Learmonth isn't just any athlete; she's a beacon of resilience and determination. After clinching a gold medal in the Mixed Team Relay at the Olympics, Jess took a hiatus from the sport to welcome her first child, Freddie, into the world in September 2023. Her return to competition was nothing short of cinematic, securing a second-place finish at the Ironman 70.3 Kraichgau in Germany this past May, right behind the formidable five-time winner, Laura Philipp.
This performance wasn't just a race; it was a statement—a declaration that Jess was back and ready to reclaim her spot at the top. The T100 London was more than just another event on the calendar; it was set to be a homecoming celebration, a chance to compete before an adoring British crowd, alongside other top-tier British athletes like IRONMAN World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay, world number five Kat Matthews, and Sophie Coldwell, who narrowly missed a spot at the Paris Olympics.
However, fate had other plans. Late Friday, Jess took to her Instagram to share the heart-wrenching news: "Gutted to announce that I’ll be pulling out of the London Tri 100 due to a hip issue that started on Friday. I am disappointed to let down the PTO, who have been hugely supportive of my return from injury and pregnancy to give me a wild card for this race. I can’t wait to toe the line on a PTO T100 race soon!"
Triathlon, as Jess herself put it, is hard work. It tests the limits of human endurance and resilience, both physically and emotionally. Yet, it's the support of a dedicated team and the unwavering spirit of athletes like Jess that remind us why we love this sport. Her team's support has been a cornerstone of her journey back to race fitness, a journey marked by both its highs and the unforeseen lows of injuries.
As the triathlon community looks forward to the Paris Olympics, the absence of Jess Learmonth at the Royal Victoria Docks will be palpably felt. But if her career has shown us anything, it's that setbacks are just setups for comebacks. Jess Learmonth will return stronger, ready to inspire and captivate us all with her grit and grace. Until then, we wait, we support, and we cheer from the sidelines for a champion whose journey is far from over.
Why is Jess Learmonth not competing in the T100 London?
Jess Learmonth has withdrawn from the T100 London due to a hip issue that began on Friday. She expressed her disappointment in letting down the PTO but looks forward to competing in future PTO T100 races.
What recent achievement did Jess Learmonth have before her withdrawal?
Jess Learmonth secured second place at IRONMAN 70.3 Kraichgau in Germany, marking her return to the sport after a two-year hiatus due to injury and pregnancy.
Who else will be competing in the T100 London event?
The T100 London event will feature high-ranking British triathletes, including IRONMAN World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay, world number five Kat Matthews, and Sophie Coldwell.
When and where is the T100 London event taking place?
The T100 London event is scheduled to take place on 27 July at the Royal Victoria Docks in London.
What has Jess Learmonth said about her withdrawal from the T100 London?
Jess Learmonth shared her disappointment on Instagram, mentioning that triathlon can be hard work at times and thanking the PTO and her support team.
What significant personal event did Jess Learmonth experience recently?
Jess Learmonth celebrated the birth of her first child, Freddie, in September 2023.
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https://www.tri247.com/triathlon-news/elite/t-100-london-2024-jess-learmonth-withdraws
