Multiple world champion Javier Gomez DQ’d after coach gives him mechanical support to fix his handlebars at race in New Zealand
Olympic silver medalist and two-time 70.3 world champion disqualified after receiving help during the cycling leg of the Tauranga Half
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Spain’s Javier Gomez, whose career includes an Olympic silver medal, five triathlon world championships, two 70.3 world titles and an Xterra world title, was disqualified at the Tauranga Half in New Zealand, reportedly for getting outside assistance from his coach, Dr. Dan Plews.
After almost 18 months out of racing due to injuries, Gomez made a triumphant return with a big win at Ironman 70.3 Mossel Bay last November (pictured above).
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Gomez has been training and racing in New Zealand with Plews, but it’s been a bit of a rough go for the Spaniard in terms of racing. Last December he was given a drafting penalty and then got a flat at Ironman 70.3 Taupo.
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Then, after a great swim at the Tauranga Half, Gomez reportedly had issues with his handlebars and was losing time on the bike. It has been reported that he was given mechanical support from Plews, which led to the DQ. Gomez would eventually cross the line in third place behind Kiwis Jack Moody (3:33:33) and Mike Phillips (3:33:44), but was disqualified for getting the assistance on the course.
Gomez is entered in Ironman 70.3 Tasmania on Feb. 4.
Hannah Berry takes women’s win
New Zealand’s Hannah Berry (formerly Hannah Wells) took her third Tauranga win in 3:58:48, holding off a fast-running Chelsea Sodaro (3:59:43). Sodaro, the 2022 Ironman World Champion, is also coached by Plews. The Netherlands’ Els Visser (4:03:22) rounded out the podium.
