One of the most festive triathlons in France began at 6:25 AM with the professional men’s race, 6:26 AM for the professional women’s race, and 6:30 AM for the age group athletes.
After the swimming event, Belgian Frederik Van Lierde already emerged as a leader, completing the 3.8 km swim in 48:38 in a group of 8 athletes, including the French Kevin Maurel, Thomas Andre, and Kevin Rundstadler.
In the women’s race, Carrie Lester easily dominated the first event of the day, with a lead of over 4 minutes over Candice Mizon, Manon Genêt, Tine Deckers, and Martina Dogana.
Reduced to 152 kilometers, the bike course was not easier, featuring a climb of nearly 2000 meters in elevation gain, an ascent of the Col de l’Ecre under full sun, and technical descents.
On roads he knows well, Frederik Van Lierde completed an impressive bike section in 4:08. Only the French athlete Kevin Rundstadler and South African James Cunamma managed to keep a gap that could still allow them to compete for the win. Gwenaël Ouillères also did well, finishing the bike segment in fourth place. The event promised to be spectacular.
In the professional women’s race, Carrie Lester controlled the competition, dominating her opponents from the sea to the mountains. Tine Deckers, a five-time winner of the race, used her experience to be only 6 minutes behind at transition 2. Manon Genêt, with high hopes for a podium finish for France, was 14 minutes behind, effectively ending any dreams of victory.
The heat was set to be a decisive factor for all athletes, including the professionals vying for the win. Frederik Van Lierde, who came to Nice with the aim of making history by winning a sixth title there, was unable to maintain his lead. Likely fatigued from his recent victory at IRONMAN 70.3 Les Sables d’Olonne – Vendée, the Belgian saw the French Rundstadler and then James Cunamma pass him in the second lap. He retained his third place facing a fiery Diego Van Looy. Known as an excellent runner, the Belgian showcased all his talent.
Runner-up in 2016, the South African clinched his first victory in the Azure capital after more than seven hours of racing this Sunday.
Ultimately, James Cunamma won this 15th edition of IRONMAN France Nice, ahead of Kevin Rundstadler and Frederik Van Lierde.
In the women’s race, the run did not bring any surprises. Carrie Lester retained her title ahead of the legendary Tine Deckers and Frenchwoman Manon Genêt, once again finishing third here in Nice.
