Vansteelant, Asplund win Powerman, AL
The fastest bike split of the day capped with 2 great runs helped 2008 ITU World Champion Joerie Vansteelant to win the 2010 Powerman Alabama Elite Championships. The women's title went to Marisa Asplund who also outbiked her competition.
"10th Powerman victory at Alabama. Very nice, but windy weather and a tough race course. Heading back home today after being here for almost three weeks," posted Vansteelant on his facebook page.
The event also doubled as the USA Triathlon Elite Duathlon National Championship and with her win, Marisa Asplund earned that title. With Vansteelant being a Belgian citizen, the men's title went to runner-up and first American Matthew Sheeks.
"I didn't think a victory was likely, but it is a pretty cool feeling to be national champion, and confirmation that the path I have chosen is the right one, and that all the training has been worth it. It's exciting since I have been in endurance sports for over ten years, and seeing how it is paying off at the Elite level now," said Sheeks to slowtwitch. "However, I really want to enjoy my training and racing, and sometimes have to remind myself that it is just a race and something to hold onto loosely, because you don't know what tomorrow will bring."
Powerman Alabama
Pelham, AL / March 27
Top 10 men
1. Joerie Vansteelant (BEL) 2:42:51
2. Matthew Sheeks (USA) 2:45:28
3. David Thompson (USA) 2:46:27
4. Matthew Russell (USA) 2:46:49
5. Dereck Treadwell (USA) 2:49:03
6. Robert Wade (USA) 2:49:56
7. Brad Seng (USA) 2:51:11
8. Clive Cooper (NZL) 2:58:49
9. John Phillips (USA) 3:02:02
10. Ryan Giuliano (USA) 3:04:05
Top women
1. Marisa Asplund (USA) 3:06:05
2. Jessica Jacobs (USA) 3:06:57
3. Deanna Newman (USA) 3:13:23
4. Uli Bromme (USA) 3:13:50
5. Melissa Miller (USA) 3:17:38
6. Anne Curi Preisig (USA) 3:19:55
7. Jennifer Garrison (USA) 3:20:03
