Russell, Lee Take Pro Titles At Ironman Canada
It was age grouper Kendra Lee who posted the fastest overall female split of the day in 9:44:58.
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American Matthew Russell and Canadian Gillian Clayton took the pro wins at today’s Ironman Canada in Penticton. Though Clayton will take home the top prize purse and pro title, it was age grouper Kendra Lee who posted the fastest overall female split of the day in 9:44:58.
It was a stellar run split that earned Russell the victory for the men. He posted a 1:03:04 swim, 4:48:41 bike and 2:53:34 marathon to earn the 8:48:30 win. Canada’s Olly Piggin was second, with Germany’s Christian Brader claiming the final podium spot.
Clayton combined a 1:08:32 swim, 5:16:51 bike and a 3:17:08 marathon to earn the top pro spot in an overall time of 9:46:07. Canada’s Karen Thibodeau finished second. Canada’s Janelle Morrison, who was involved in a devastating car crash less than two years ago, earned third.
This was likely the final Ironman event in Pecticton. The Challenge Series announced on Friday that it would be taking over and the race would be known as Challenge Penticton going forward. Ironman has been telling athletes it plans to return to Canada at a different location for 2013.
Ironman Canada
Penticton, BC, Canada – Aug. 26, 2012
2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike, 26.2-mile run
Men
1. Matthew Russell (USA) 8:48:30
2. Olly Piggin (CAN) 8:54:17
3. Christian Brader (GER) 8:58:59
4. Anthony Toth (CAN) 9:02:07
5. Shanon Stallard (NZL) 9:03:53
Women
1. Gillian Clayton (CAN) 9:46:07
2. Karen Thibodeau (CAN) 9:50:52
3. Janelle Morrison (CAN) 9:53:20
4. Paolina Allan (CAN) 10:04:07
5. Alexis Smith (USA) 10:06:34
Amateur
1. Kendra Lee (USA) 9:44:58*
*Fastest overall women’s time. Lee competed as part of the 30-34 age group.