Source: Editor // filed: July 31 2006
10 years ago, Lucy Smith stood on the podium in Ferrara, Italy sporting a shiny Silver Medal. Still new to the sport, it didn't dawn on Smith at the time that it would be such a long journey to once again return to the top of the World in a sport as grueling as the Duathlon. 10 years and two children later, Smith once again won Silver.
The hills of Cornerbrook, NFLD challenged the athletes for a 10k run, 40k bike and another 5k run. The draft legal race splintered on the bike, and Lucy rode with eventual race winner Catriona Morrison for half the ride. After losing ground on one of the steep climbs in the 6 loop bike course, Lucy made a tactical decision to protect the Silver, as she was 1:30 up on a group of chasing women.
"I felt strong from my Ironman Training, but a bit like I didn't have the sprint speed or anaerobic capacity of some of the younger women", said the 39 year old Smith, who is coached by Lance Watson. "My legs where burning on the bike, and I felt like I need to be careful not to blow up for the 2nd run. It was so hilly, and so hard".
Smith was jubilant afterwards. "I could retire tomorrow and feel satisfied. I was really pleased with my race. I raced smart and gave it everything I had"
Congratulations to Kirsten Sweetland (coached by Lucy Smith) for a Silver Medal performance as well, in the World Junior Category. 17 year old Sweetland looks in fine form for the World Triathlon Championships in Lausanne, Switzerland, in early September.