Tina Tretner, German (3rd female): “It’s an amazing feeling. I didn’t expect to be on the podium. It was an immense joy when during the race I realized I could finish in the top three. I really didn’t think it was possible, especially when I saw the list of participants. I had hoped, at best, to be in the Top 5. So, a podium finish is exceptional.”
Patrick Bringer, French (3rd male): “It was an ideal race. I managed to keep up with the best in swimming and cycling. I had a decent marathon. I love coming here to Nice and it was fabulous for the audience to see the third place decided by a sprint! On the bike, I wanted to keep up with the best. I did that and it’s very good. I even tried to accelerate, but the goal was to keep up with Marcel and Gilles.”
Kathrin Paetzold, German (2nd female): “I am pleased with my IronMan, especially with the marathon and finishing it very well. The first 70 kilometers on the bike were very difficult as I had swallowed a lot of sea water. But then, I managed to gain four minutes on Virginia Berasategui (editor’s note: then race leader) towards the end of the bike leg, and I felt really good to start the marathon.”
Gilles Reboul, French (2nd male): “This was one of my best marathons on IronMan. I think I can still do better. I had a bad first half marathon because I had gastric problems. I managed to get rid of them and had a very good second part, averaging 17 km/h between km 30 and 35. I can run faster. With my marriage, I am a new and fulfilled man. Sportingly, I am an athlete who has come back to life. After my injury, I was aware that I could return to the top level and I have come back faster than the doctors anticipated. With this result at the IronMan of Nice, I thank those who did not select me for the Lorient World Championship even though it was hard to keep someone who was injured.”
Alexandra Louison, French (female winner): “With this victory, I’ve got a nickname ‘Little Louis’. I saw it in Nice-Matin. I’m used to nicknames… I’m very happy about the way it went. I had to get revenge for last year. I managed better and did not fail. Being constantly among the leaders, it motivates! It’s great to run here. There was a lot of ambiance. That’s what I love about triathlon. It’s a celebration! It makes you want to go further. Victories give confidence. You should never give up but never claim victory too soon. We always learn.”
Marcel Zamora, Spanish (male winner): “I am very happy to win in Nice. With the public cheering me on, I felt like at home. I dedicate my victory to a 24-year-old friend who died of cancer. I felt very loved. Everyone was shouting: ‘Marcel! Marcel!’ I had more support here than in Spain!”
