Gentle clears books for crack at 11th Noosa title
Ashleigh Gentle will treat her attempt at an 11th Noosa Triathlon title as if it’s her last because the sport’s ever-expanding schedule means it could be.
The 33-year-old will gun for an incredible 10th consecutive title in Sunday’s 41st staging of the event, Gentle also boasting two second places in her 12 appearances.
To even report for duty every year for a decade is a feat in itself, let alone overcome hungry local and decorated international rivals to hit the line first each time.
The two-time Olympian’s move to middle distance triathlon has further complicated things, the Gold Coast product’s schedule now taking her around the world as part of the lucrative T100 tour.
Gentle is ranked second in the 20-strong, seven-stop elite series that could add an Australian leg in coming years and boasts European athletes that are afforded rock-star status at their home events.
She sat out last month’s Las Vegas race, ensuring a return home for what will be her only Australian appearance this year ahead of the T100 final in Dubai next month.
“It’s kind of a miracle, but let’s not jinx it,” Gentle told AAP of her remarkable Noosa consistency ahead of Sunday’s 1.5km swim, 40km ride and 10km run.
“It is crazy that since I was a teenager I’ve been able to turn up and get the job done … 13th time, 10 wins, two seconds and it’d be nice to keep the streak alive.
“My only race this year in Australia and I’m going to take advantage of being in really good shape.”
Five-time winner and former Olympic champion Emma Snowsill said Gentle’s Noosa reign should not be underestimated.
“(At Noosa) you get back to the purity of why you love it and that shines through with Ash,” she said.
“To show up uninjured, not sick … the seasons are getting longer and longer.
“But it gives you a bit of a float, this event and you’re buoyed and reminded to be humble and present with all the other (amateur) athletes.
“Ash was shy, quite timid as a junior on the Gold Coast.
“She’s gained that maturity over the years, as the face of this event to express herself with confidence in racing.”
Paris Olympian Natalie Van Coevorden will be among the challengers as she follows Gentle into a middle-distance career.
Former champion Luke Willian heads the men’s elite list in his last event of a year that featured an Olympic debut and sixth place in the World Triathlon Championship series.
Two-time Noosa winner and Tokyo Olympian Jake Birtwhistle, who has also moved into middle distance racing after missing a Paris berth, is gunning for a third title while South African Olympian Jamie Riddle has been lured to the Sunshine Coast for a shot at the crown.
The five-day multi-sport festival continues on Saturday afternoon with the 5km Bolt and Australian Open Criterium cycling events set to draw huge crowds to Noosa Parade.
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