10th Place at T100 Gold Coast, Australia
I kicked off my season with a 10th-place finish at the T100 Gold Coast in Australia. It was a great way to start the year on the T100 World Tour, in an incredible setting with the outstanding organization that T100 events are known for. I’m truly grateful to have had the opportunity to race this opening event over the T100 distance (2 km swim, 80 km bike and 18 km run).
A Demanding Race
We started in typical Australian conditions: waves, current and strong winds. The swim was especially challenging, with waves over one metre high. I had never swum in such rough water before! It was intense and unpredictable, but I really enjoyed the challenge. I felt comfortable throughout the swim, exited the water with the lead group, and had a very fast transition to stay right in the race.
The bike leg was much more difficult. From the very beginning, I never really found my rhythm. The course consisted of eight 10 km laps, fully exposed to the wind, and a gradual loss of tyre pressure made things even more challenging.
At that point, I kept telling myself: “One lap at a time.” I fought all the way through, although looking back, I know there were a few pacing decisions that could have been better. Those are valuable lessons for the races ahead. I came into T2 in 13th place.
On the 18 km run, my goal was simple: move up as many places as possible. My legs felt much better, and I was finally able to race the way I wanted. The atmosphere along the Surfers Paradise waterfront was incredible and gave me an extra boost. Lap after lap, I overtook several athletes to fight my way back into the Top 10.
I completed the 100 km race in 3:40:51 (27:01 swim, 2:03:51 bike and 1:08:10 run).
Frustration and Valuable Lessons
This was one of those races where I had to dig deep from start to finish. Although I’m disappointed with my bike performance, I’m pleased with the way I ran and, above all, proud that I never gave up.
These are often the races that teach you the most. They highlight the areas where you can improve and provide even more motivation to keep working.
Looking Ahead
This Top 10 finish secures my place at the next round of the T100 Triathlon World Tour in Spain, which is a great way to continue building my season.
I also took the opportunity to spend a few extra days in Australia, exploring the area and spotting kangaroos in the wild. Simple moments like these are part of what makes this sport so special.
I’m now heading back to Yuxi, China, where I’ll continue training with my altitude squad. Two local races are on the schedule in April and May before returning to international competition.
The season is underway. There’s still a lot of work to do, but I know I’m moving in the right direction. Every race brings me one step closer to my goal of continuing to improve and challenging the very best triathletes in the world.
Thank you to everyone who follows and supports my journey. Your encouragement gives me even more motivation every time I step onto the start line.
