2008 crowned Marcel Zamora (ESP) and Martina Dogana (ITA), and they will be at the starting line on June 28th. Marcel aims to claim his fourth Nice title (2006/2007/2008) and secure his legacy among the greats of the Nice triathlon. He will face a top French champion for the fourth time.
Indeed, he will need to consider Hervé Faure (FRA), a two-time winner of Embrun and the 2005 winner on the Promenade des Anglais (with Marcel finishing second that year). In 2006 and 2008, Hervé barely missed defeating his Spanish rival; as the cloth of champions demands, Hervé returns this year with the firm intention of advancing his mark.
From Argentina, Oscar Galindez (ARG), a triple winner of the Ironman Brazil and the 2007 Vice Champion at the ‘World Championship 70.3’ in Clearwater, is also a ten-time winner at the 70.3 distance, boasting an impressive track record that began over 20 years ago. Thus, a formidable challenger will be at the start.
Having returned to his top form in 2008, François Chabaud (FRA) (ITU world vice champion, French vice champion, 4th in Port Elizabeth, 5th in Roth) can aspire to the top step of the Nice podium, which he started climbing in 2006 with a commendable 3rd place. He has high aspirations and the potential to pursue victory.
Olivier Marceau (FRA/SWI), former Olympic distance world champion, will also make his first steps on the Ironman circuit (after Port Elizabeth – South Africa – in April) and will seek a time on the Côte d’Azur. A very serious outsider will also be at the starting line at 6:30 AM; Simon Billeau (FRA), who recorded an astonishing 5th place at the Ironman Australia in December 2008 with a time of 8:20, will be a serious contender for the top spots.
After Laurent Jalabert participated in 2008, another former pro cyclist, Jean Patrick Nazon (FRA), will try his hand at Ironman France. Of course, we are curious to see his “performance” on the bike course.
For the women, the battle also promises to be fierce under the Azurian heat. While title holder and record holder of the event, Martina Dogana (ITA), returns for the 3rd time, Alexandra Louison (FRA), 2007 winner, will start to reclaim her title and mark her 4th participation in Nice.
But the two champions will have their work cut out as a star, seemingly unstoppable, will be there. New Zealander Gina Fergusson (NZL), recent winner of the Ironman New Zealand, has notched up 5 victories and 4 course records at Ironman distance since 2007. How she will fare on the French course is unknown, but one thing is certain, it will take a fight to distance her!
For a great race, great champions, and the adage has never been truer than this year. Under the Azurian sun on June 28, it will be spectacular!
