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Last weekend (Saturday 18th April) saw Nic Leary pick up her first Xterra win. A determined, gutsy athlete, those who know her knew it was just a matter of time before she achieved her goal. Her win overshadowed partner Cabin's creditable 3rd placing, adding another podium finish to a good season. What follows is Nic's report on the event, which says it all:
 "Saturday was a very enjoyable day for me at XTERRA NZ held at Blue Lake, Rotorua. I picked up my first NZ title, winning the pro-women's race by over 2 minutes from Susie Wood (Nelson) & Annika Smail (Rotorua).
"I had a plan and executed it well. It was largely built around my escalating form on the mountain bike, which is my focus this year
"With over 400 individuals hitting the lake, the 1km swim was its usual exciting turmoil of arms and legs. I joined in, managed to find the odd hip & feet to exit the water well in touch with the contenders. Exiting transition I rode up to Susie on the seal climb and enjoyed the ensuing battle up hill road as we went blow for blow. I had the legs on her up the final part of 'frontal lobotomy' and as we hit the first single track descent I put the hammer down. Soon after I caught and passed Monique Avery taking the lead for good.
"I completed the MTB recording the fastest female MTB split, had another swift transition and set out to consolidate my race on the two-lap 11km run. I took a bit to settle into the run, then ran a solid pace to victory over two minutes clear of 2nd. Heading out on my second lap I wanted a time split back to second but my supporters just said, "You're looking good Nic" or, "You are looking strong." I didn't care what I looked like! But they were right, forget about the others and just go.
"I like winning, so already I am looking forward to building on what has been a solid domestic season on the mountain bike and in off road triathlon. I am very fortunate to have the support of several key sponsors & people of whom I would like to formally thank
- N-duro.com (Marcus & Dean)
- 2XU (Robbie Johnson)
- New Balance (Leyton Tremain)
- Balance Nutrition (Martin Bolton)
- Magura (Chris Hodder)
- Crank It Cycles (Phil Etheridge & Linda Darragh)
"I have been selected in the NZ MTB team alongside Rosara Joseph to represent NZ in the elite women's race for the world championships in September. Cabin & I head off to Switzerland in five weeks to begin a 3-month build up amongst strong European and North American competition. I am very fortunate to have him alongside, as my partner & coach. He has been hugely instrumental in my achievements this season.
"Thanks to all our friends, family, sponsors, and supporters..... and everyone who takes an interest in what we do. It is much appreciated and makes any success that much more rewarding."
Best wishes at the Worlds! Don't forget to follow Nic and Cabin's progress overseas at www.nicandcabin.blogspot.com |
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