Marion Legrand (FRA) claimed gold at the start of the 2024 World Multisport Championships with an electric performance in the women’s duathlon. A cool breeze provided respite from the Queensland heat, but Legrand did not give her rivals the same.
“What a wonderful feeling it is to be the Duathlon World Champion!” said Legrand after the race. “I was inspired by the French team that competed at the Paris Olympics, and I wanted to give my all in the duathlon. This was my biggest goal for the season, and I am happy with my performance. I want to dedicate today’s race to my wife who was unable to compete today due to injury, but who was in my heart the whole time.”
Richelle Hill (AUS) was eager to impress her compatriots and went out on a high in the opening segment. 2024 Oceania Junior Championships winner Aspen Anderson (AUS) was close behind. Phoebe Barker (GBR), reigning European champion Legrand and Ai Ueda (JPN) were also in the early pack battling for the lead alongside Hill, as was Jeanne Dupont (BEL). Charlotte McShane (AUS) was brought up the rear of the lead group in this change from standard triathlon.
After the second lap of the first run segment, the competitors broke away and Barker led Legrand and Hill into T1. Barker was unable to match the pace set by the leaders on the first of four bike laps and then fell back. At the end of the 20km, Legrand and Hill gained a one-minute lead going into T2. Legrand emerged first from transition and extended her lead.
European Champion Legrand crossed the line first and claimed her first world title. Meanwhile, Hill consolidated her position to win senior silver and the U23 World title. “I feel so happy. I didn’t expect this result but the crowd helped me with their encouragement,” Hill said. “It was amazing to hear them and to be able to race here today. I know I’ve competed against some of the best duathletes in the world, especially Marion Legrand. I’ve watched her ride and she’s amazing. My coach told me to be conservative but when I got to the top of the hill on the first lap I thought… oh no, I’m not going to be conservative. But it was because I knew I had the legs to do it.”
Dupont was third overall, and second in the U23 category. She was very happy after the race. “I was injured, so I am super happy with my performance.” Anderson completed the U23 podium.
Earlier in the day, Lulu Johnson (NZL) secured the Junior Women’s World title with a strong win, dominating from start to finish. Lucie Francis (AUS) and Hannah Pollock (AUS) completed the podium.
