St.Croix, the beast awaits

Wednesday, 30 April 2008 09:14

If you know nothing about the race this weekend in St.Croix know this. There is a beast on the course and it eats athletes! St.Croix is a legendary race that has a great history and features the world famous 'beast'. The beast is a climb that features throughout the course and has been the undoing of many an athlete throughout the race. This Beast climbs 14% in a little over one kilometre.

Reading about this famed race years ago, one journalist described the professionals as riding the beast like 'paperboys' in that they zigzgged their way up the climb. But the race is known for more than just the big climb. This year sees some of the best talent on show as the fields rival that of any big race world wide.

The headline act for this race must be Craig Alexander. He was last season's revelation with a remarkable rookie performance. He is smart, motivated and hungry to keep performing. He is also the defending champion. In his way will be Faris Al - Sultan. The big German is on form this year after embarrassing the field at Ironman Malaysia. The question is whether he has the speed in his legs for a half Ironman. Throw in Simon Lessing, Michael Lovato and Richie Cunningham and this race is looking very very quick. 70.3 World Champion Mirinda Carfrae is the draw card in the women's event. She will be chased down by Joanna Zeiger, Nina Kraft and Karen Smyers. Julie Dibbens had a great day on the island last year but might find this years crowd a bit tougher. But come this weekend they will all be going flat out to get their name on an honor roll that reads like triathlon royalty.

Trying to pick the winner here is a tough one but we will have a crack.

St.Croix Fearless predictions

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