O’Donnell 2nd at ITU Long Course World Championships
8/04/2010Timothy O’Donnell overcame a dropped bike chain to take second place in the ITU Long Course World Championships, held July 31 – August 1 in Immenstadt, Germany.
O’Donnell, a newcomer to long course triathlons, called on his considerable reserves of determination to take his podium spot. After an excellent finish in the swimming segment of the contest, a mishap with his bike’s chain cost him 50 seconds. Undaunted, he made steady progress in the run.
“When the smoke cleared, I entered T2 in sixth position. Of course, I stayed true to my motto and did not give up,” he said. “I began the run and felt absolutely horrible. I remember saying to myself ‘If this is what Ironmans are going to be, I think I'll stick to short course.’ I lost some time to the front five competitors in the first five kilometers, but I began to find my stride. In a methodical manner, I caught the racers in front of me, moving into fifth after Lap 1 and fourth after Lap 2. I entered the final lap in fourth place, and while second place was 1:40 up the road, I knew if I stayed strong I could get there. Before I knew it, second place was in sight and with five kilometers left in the run, I made the pass and did not look back.”
Maxxis congratulates Timothy O’Donnell on his latest fine performance and thanks him for choosing Maxxis.
