Race Previews

More Loot For Lendway?

Monday, 20 April 2015 00:10

HEATHER LENDWAY podiumed in her non-drafting pro debut at Las Olas International last month. Can she do it again next Sunday at the iconic St. Anthony's Triathlon in St. Petersburg, Florida? Maybe, but to do so she would have to outrace at least one recognized superstar.

Sarah Haskins, arguably the finest female triathlete that America has ever produced, is probably the best non-drafting Olympic distance female racer in the world. You just don't bet against her. At St. A's, she's won five times in seven starts. She placed 2nd in her non-winning efforts back in 2006 and 2007. Her course record is sick. 1:56:44.

Then there's Alecia Kaye, who won here in 2013 in 1:57:10. Haskins is the only American who beats her regularly.

Finally, there's Denmark's Helle Fredericksen, who, get this!, hasn't missed a podium since 2012.

To beat one of these women next Sunday would take at least a 1:59; maybe a 1:58. Is HL ready to go that fast? Good question. If she can, she'd take her place among the very best in the sport....

But making the podium is not as important as using the experience to pull the most out of oneself, whether that results in a Top 3, or not. The good news is that the Top 8 male and female pro finishers will earn prize money and we firmly believe that Heather will pocket some of it . Here's the breakdown:

1. $10,000

2. $5000

3. $3250

4. $2500

5. $1750

6. $1250

7. $750

8. $500

How much will Lendway make next weekend? Our guess is that she'll make at least $1750. We're anxious to see how she does.

ALSO: Honorary Minnesotan Dani FIscher placed 7th yesterday in her pro debut at New Orleans 70.3. Way to go, Fish!