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Marceau and Kloner take TriStar 111 Nevis titles

The season opener for the TriStar Series.

The intimate 2012 TriStar roster attracted legacies of families, new triathletes and a field of pros ambitious to begin their race season on the right foot. “With TriStar, I always know the locations and options are among the best in the world. When you can combine sport with triathlon and bring the entire family, it becomes a really special social experience,” said the famous French actor and pilot Paul Belmondo.

With a forecast of 84 degrees, a fresh Nevisian morning greeted athletes on Gallows Bay before the start of TriStar111 at 8:15 AM. Olivier Marceau (SUI) emerged first while Laurel Wassner surged ahead of the pack to exit second. By 8:45 AM after the start of TriStar33.3, all athletes had officially begun their race in Nevis paradise.

Chris McHugh, from east coast USA was the first to step onto the red carpet and cross the finish line in TriStar33.3. Chris and his family became a favorite after their participation in this week’s Pink Lily charity 5K. McHugh and his wife participated in the event with their four young children and inspired many with their involvement. Following McHugh was Johanna Starr (SKN) in second and Paul Belmondo (FRA) in third. By mid-morning, the St. Kitts/Nevis’ Sports Minister, the Honorable Hensley Daniel joined finishers on the red carpet to officially welcome them to the island and to personally congratulate many athletes on their race in Nevis.

“Triathlon in Nevis is a real community event that we are very proud of. Sport is important for Nevis; to welcome athletes from across the world to our country is an honor,” said Daniel. The TriStar111 100km/62 mile bike course brought the greatest challenge with its fast descents requiring swift handling of the bike. “TriStar111 Nevis was one of the toughest races I’ve ever done. The long, steep climbs, screaming fast descents and technical skills required on this course presented a rewarding challenge,” said PRO Amy Kloner.

Crowds of fans and local cheerleaders lined the red carpet to welcome the first TriStar111 athlete to the finish. Olivier Marceau (SUI) earned his first place spot beating his 2011 finish where he took second to Chris McCormack. Following Marceau, Chris Meewes (USA) – first-time TriStar racer – took second followed by John Hirsch (USA) in third. An official awards presentation was held at Occasions post race to honor the accomplishments of TriStar Nevis 2012. TriStar Race Director, President of the St. Kitts/Nevis Triathlon Federation and Press Officer of the Nevis Cycle and Triathlon Club Winston Crooke received special recognition for his support of triathlon on the island. “Winston Crooke is a genuine ambassador for the sport of triathlon. His has a rich commitment to seeing every individual has the opportunity to train, race and appreciate sports. This dedication is a fiber woven beautifully into the Nevisian community and now, internationally,” said Lindsey Kurhajetz, General Manager Star Events USA.

Officially concluding the TriStar Nevis race week was the PR launch of World by Cycle’s tour across 26 countries in 300 days. Explorer Kristina Stony will be joined by her partner Nic Arny to attempt the fastest world circumnavigation by a female according to Guinness standards. The team launched their cycle tour in conjunction with TriStar Nevis before heading to their second stop in Brazil. To learn more about their adventure, visit: www.worldbycycle.info.

Kloner sums best the feeling of the TriStar Nevis experience, “I love to travel and experience new cultures; Nevis did not disappoint. Thank you to the island and the organizers for the hospitality and warm welcome. This island is so special.”

TriStar111 – Top 3 Men

1. Olivier Marceau (SUI) 3:48:26

2. Chris Meewes (USA) 3:55:29

3. John Hirsch (USA) 4:06:51

TriStar111 – Top 3 Women

1. Amy Kloner (USA) 4:08:01

2. Laurel Wassner (USA) 4:19:15

3. Janine Herweijer (NED) 4:46:12
Updates and Live Coverage on www.TriStarLive.com