Initially, across all categories, 57 athletes were at the start of this duathlon (5km running, then 18km cycling (instead of 20), and 2.5km running), with the absence of major para-sport nations such as China and Brazil.
A new world title then for Benjamin Landier and the Nice-based para-sport club led by president Sébastien Filippini.
This race was very mentally challenging, with the primary goal for the ANICES association member being to retain the triathlon world title in New Zealand on October 22nd.
However, this medal also has its downside: “My passion allows me to put in the work needed to win two French paracycling championships, and three world titles in cross-triathlon, triathlon, and duathlon, but I am no longer able, without support or recognition, to continue under these conditions,” assures Benjamin Landier.
Who will respond to this cry for help?
It is Benjamin Landier himself who chronicles his race:
“Right from the start, visually impaired athletes and their guides take off, as well as athletes with upper limb impairments, I do everything I can but while waiting to be equipped soon there is nothing to do, I cannot be mechanically efficient, moreover, the American Johnston with his carbon blade goes so fast that when I enter the park I am really not confident.
No choice, the cycling will be at full speed, I pass the American midway through and finish with a flourish, and luckily I didn’t let up at all because over the 2.5km the American is charged up, and as we pass each other I see it’s really not the same pace and so it’s with only 13 seconds that I cross the line as the winner.”
And who expresses both his determination:
“Also, following the triathlon world championship, regardless of the result, I will pause high-level paratriathlon competitions to race only in France against able-bodied athletes and thus continue to progress, as long as para-sport athletes dependent on their federation are not recognized as the athletes they truly are.”
