Sensational Sanders wins at St. George

What a weekend at IRONMAN 70.3 St. George! Not just the biggest race in over a year, but a thrilling finish resulting a win for Lionel Sanders - incredible. We caught up with a few Blueseventy athletes to get their thoughts on the racing, including the changes due to Covid.
Sensational Sanders wins at St. George

We’re more than proud to have supported Lionel for many years. He never disappoints, but this was extra special to win the North American Championship in a hugely deep field.

Lionel’s reaction speaks volumes for how exciting it was just to race, let alone take the win:

“That’s probably the best battle – I’ve never went that deep, that far, into a race. It was a truly emotional experience.

“We had this pandemic; we’ve been off racing… but I’ve just missed a battle like that. It brought me to tears. This is going to be a great course for the 70.3 Worlds.”

Jackson Laundry finished fifth, another fantastic result. He had one of his best ever swims, crediting his Blueseventy Helix for keeping him in touch with the leaders (though we know that swim was mostly down to hard work!)

Jackson ran up to fifth halfway through the 13.1mile run, commenting: “I was gaining on 4th and 3rd but just ran out of room! Super happy with the day overall, and I know I can improve upon that performance at Worlds in September.”

Jackie Hering finished eighth in a really deep field of world class athletes. She said: “Triathlon racing is up at a new level right now; one I have never experienced in my 10+ years of pro racing. It's pretty amazing!”

For anyone building up to their first races of the season, Jackie added: “Races are happening, and they are great. Get out there and have fun!”

Eric Lagerstrom noted a few changes due to Covid, which are worth being mindful of: “It was odd for the expo to be so dead. They spaced everyone’s check in out over a few days to keep it thin, which was the right call, but felt weird.”

Jackson added: “The races are all a little different now with Covid protocols, but it still has the same feeling and excitement during the race. Pretty awesome to be back out there!

“Make sure to pay attention to the pre-race protocols before showing up to the race site. Once the race starts, it's almost the same as any other year!”

Also on the subject of racing in 2021, Carrie Lester, who finished ninth, said “Prepare the best you can. And if races get cancelled, there will be others, so stay positive and keep doing the work.”

Thanks for the tips, and well done to everyone at St. George, we’re really excited for the season ahead now!