The 3rd Triathlon International de Paris
Image: Tri-Athlete (FR) Aout 1988
Here’s a race report from the 1988 Triathlon International de Paris. I’ve already looked at 1986 (the first edition) and 1987.
The article is written by Pierre Titeux. But from point of view of a boat anchored in the Seine. Yes. Unique. Your move 220.
Over 1000 athletes applied for the 350 slots. Despite the typical big city race problems reported after the 1987 edition. Glenn Cook and Robin Brew were announced on the poster above. But I’m pretty sure neither started.
Yves Cordier got a gap in the swim. And held it on the newly designed bike course. A two-lapper. Through Issy Les Moulineux, Meudon, Sevres and Boulogne Billancourt. It was a tough one. With long straight, exposed sections, technical descents and a steep climb.
Erin Baker led the women’s swim. From Sarah Springman, Isabelle Mouthon, Sarah Coope and Sophie Delemer.
Cordier used Scott DH bars for the first time. Crazy. It’s September 1988. US-based pros have been on them since May 1987.
Yves got caught in traffic on a descent whcih allowed Rob Barel to close the gap. And ultimately start the run first. He held a small lead for the first 8km. But pushed it out to 38 seconds in the last 2km.
Karel Blondeel was 3rd. Jean-Claude Cauchois 4th. And Tom Gallagher was 5th. An American pro that I don’t know a lot about. But he was a regular on the French-scene at this time. More research needed on Tom.
Baker wins easily. By 6:30. Followed by Springman, Coope, Delemer and Elisabeth Poncelet. All results are below.
The 2nd but last paragraph is interesting. Here it is:
Paris provded a magnificent backdrop for an exciting race. That kept the large crowds entertained. But from a sporting point of view there’s not as much to get excited about. Swimming with the current. And plenty of drafting on the bike. Even if it’s not intentional. And a run course through car exhaust fumes. That’s before we even talk about coaches and club officials getting onto the bike course. And using cars and motorbikes to protect their athletes from the wind.
Images: Tri-Athlete (FR) Octobre 1988
