Great Britain’s Olivia Mathias Victorious at European Triathlon Cup in Tiszaujvaros
Great Britain’s Olivia Mathias is victorious in the 2021 European Triathlon Cup after a a thrilling race in Tiszaujvaros, Hungary.
In searing heat of the early afternoon sun, Mathais had a superb race and remained in contention throughout the race after a phenomenal swim. Coming off the bike a wall of heat hit the field before Mathias put in a solid run so no-one could catch her as she took the winning tape in a time of 01:00:16.
Although the smallest portion in the three discipline it was the swimming leg that was the better predictor for the triumphant Mathias overall performance. Her exit from the swim in second place 3 seconds behind fellow countryman Sophie Alden (GB) who swam an excellent time of 00:09:45 was to set Mathias up for a chance of success. Whilst there was a strong field of chasing cyclists to contend with, her fast swim allowed her to by-pass any thought of being in a slower pack or riding a lonely cycling section.
Cycling well within her limits by drafting with a small but strong front pack not only allowed Mathias to keep within striking distance of the victory but physically provided her with a lower oxygen uptake and lower heart rate for a higher power output, saving precious energy to be in the best condition for the run.
And although both Audrey Merle (FRA) and Costanza Arpinelli (ITL), who were placed 2rd and 3rd respectively, were both significantly faster on the run than Mathias neither could make up enough time to override Mathias strong swim time.
Of the seven GB women who entered the heats all qualified for the final and all putting in a sterling performance, finishing as follows:
| Pos | First Name | Last Name | YOB | Country | Time |
| 1 | Olivia | Mathias | 1998 | GBR | 01:00:16 | |
| 6 | Annabel | Morton | 2000 | GBR | 01:00:48 | |
| 8 | Sophie | Alden | 1998 | GBR | 01:00:57 | |
| 34 | Rosie | Allen | 2000 | GBR | 01:01:14 | |
| 11 | Hollie | Elliott | 1999 | GBR | 01:01:23 | |
| 13 | Erica | Byram | 1999 | GBR | 01:01:39 | |
| 32 | Kate | Waugh | 1999 | GBR | DNF |
