Australia’s Jack Howell (PTS5) is set to surge to the top of the world rankings after winning gold at the World Triathlon Para Series in Taranto.
It’s another highlight in a breakout season for the 21-year-old, who now boasts wins in Taranto and Devonport and a silver medal from Yokohama – positioning him as a leading contender for the world title at the World Triathlon Championships Finals Wollongong.
“It was a really exciting race from the front today,” Howell said.
“The swim was fast right from the start, we had three of us up front and luckily we all came in together, so it was good to capitalise on that gap and we all rode really hard in the bike leg.”
“Unfortunately, a few of the boys rode a bit harder than me today and they got a bit of a gap going into the transition. The bike course was really challenging which sort of crept up on us all and it made for a really interesting run.
“It was definitely not a speedy run for me but a bit more, I’d say, controlled and calculated, so I was really happy to come away with the win today.
“I don’t know how long I will be number one for but I am ready to lock in now for World Triathlon Championship Finals in Wollongong.”
Australia’s success continued with silver medals for Sam Harding (PTVI) and Aaron Royle (Guide) in Taranto, showcasing a partnership that’s steadily growing stronger ahead of Wollongong.
“The race was solid today. I wanted to come here and race against some of the top competitors and see where we are at before heading to Wollongong and getting ready for the World Championship Finals,” Harding said.
Royle added his perspective on the progress they’ve made and the work still to come.
“It was a solid race all round. Happy we’ve made some improvements on last year and where we are at now and we know what improvements we need to make for Wollongong to try and get on the podium there.”
For full World Triathlon Para Series Taranto results, click here.
