Japanese Triathlete Pulls Off Impressive Double At Asian Cup
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Kiyomi Niwata of Japan wins Olympic distance race, then follows it up with long distance event victory the following day.
Completing a long-distance triathlon is demanding at the best of times, but almost impossible just a day after competing in the standard version.
However, Kiyomi Niwata of Japan not only managed to accomplish that feat at the age of 40, but also emerged victorious in both events at the China Town Cup ITU World Series Triathlon in Weihai, Shandong province, over the weekend.
Starting 14 years ago, Niwata has competed in more than 100 Olympic distance triathlons. But she has never tried the long-distance event, which doubles the standard one.
“It was too hard,” Niwata said. “I had no idea I could ride because this was the first time I’ve tried the long-distance event. And I didn’t take enough food on the bike so I felt hungry along the way.
“I am happy with my win. I took a big lead from the start, but lost a little speed and duration today,” said Niwata, who finished in 4:59:42, 20 minutes ahead of the runner-up, Kristin Lie of Norway.
Niwata said she decided to take part in both events out of budget concerns.
“I pay for the race, the accommodation and travel,” said Niwata, who won $5,625 for winning the two events.
“It’s not cheap to compete around the world. I have two sponsors but it is not enough to support me.”
Read more: China Daily