Alistair Brownlee, who has been off racing since last year, was back today at Blenheim Palace in top condition showing the world why he is still number one in the first event of the 2012 British Triathlon Super Series. Jonathan Brownlee, who has delivered two outstanding winning performances in the San Diego and Madrid legs of the ITU World Triathlon Series, ran an impressive 57mins 16seconds along with his brother.

 

The Brownlee’s were first out of the water and continued to increase their lead over the course of the race. The brothers were dynamic on the bike course leaving the competition in their wake.  Third place was contested between Adam Bowden, Con Doherty and Mark Buckingham with Mark narrowly leading the pack over the finish line by six seconds.

 

Jonathan Brownlee said, “It was nice, we don’t often have the chance to do it. To cross the line like that was really good, especially this year with how hard it’s been for Ali and his Achilles injury. It’s great to see him back. For me personally it was a tough race on a hard course, as it constantly goes up and down. It’s a true triathlon course.”

 

He continued, “It’s nice to race on the same course as age groupers and to be in the countryside – we usually race in big cities but the GE Blenheim Triathlon takes place in a unique setting.”

 

Alistair Brownlee said, “The first race back is always a bit nerve racking but it’s good to get it out of the way and have a solid race. We wanted to cross the line together before we started so it was good we had the chance to do it.”

 

He added, “It’s nice to be here - it’s my first time at the GE Blenheim Triathlon and it’s actually a really nice course – very British with the Palace setting, lakes and lawns.” 

 

Jodie Stimpson led an impressive field to claim victory in the women’s race in 01:06:12.

 

She said, “It’s an awesome race and really special to me as all my friends and family get to come and watch. It gives you a lift to the next level and I’m really pleased to get the third year win today.”

 

The GE Blenheim Triathlon also hosted the British Youth and Junior Elite Triathlon Championships and fourth race of the 2012 British Triathlon Youth and Junior Super Series ensuring some of our most talented young athletes were in action.

 

In the youth race, British Triathlon Olympic Talent Squad athlete, Miles Burton crossed the line first, continuing his battle for top spot in the overall standings with Greg Chambers, who finished second. Gavin Alexander finished in third place in the super sprint distance race.

 

In the female youth race, Megan McDonald maintained her overall lead in the competition by adding a win in Blenheim to two runner-up positions achieved in previous races of the Super Series.  Bronwen Angharad Owen finished second, with Sian Rainsley finishing third.

 

In the junior races, Sophie Coldwell took her second successive win in the Super Series after winning the Nufield Health Triathlon last month. Sky Draper finished second, with Sophia Saller finishing in third.

 

Scottish athlete, Marc Austin took the honours in the male junior race, with Con Doherty in second and Alex Matchett in third. For full results visit www.tri247.com 

 

The GE Blenheim Triathlon is the UK’s second largest triathlon and is generally considered to be the ‘official season opener’. With over 5,000 triathletes taking part each year, all eager to kick start their triathlon season in style.

 

The GE Blenheim Triathlon will be shown on Channel 4 on the 24th June.