Five-star show? American star Kanute targets fifth straight win at Alcatraz

Ben Kanute will seek a fifth successive victory in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon in San Francisco next weekend.

Kanute, who competed for the USA at the 2016 Olympics, is expected to be challenged by compatriots Ben Hoffman and last weekend’s IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga hero Jason West in the 41^st edition of the race on June 5. 

British athlete and 2016 IRONMAN 70.3 world champion Holly Lawrence heads the women’s field as she bids to improve on last year’s second place, while 2021 third-placer Jackie Hering (USA) also returns following her recent Chattanooga victory. 

‘Unforgiving course’

Kanute’s recent standout displays include victory at IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside, second place at IRONMAN 70.3 Texas, both in 2021, and third place in this year’s CLASH Miami. 

But the Alcatraz course, which features a 1.5-mile swim, 18-mile bike and 8-mile run, holds special significance. 

Kanute said: “Winning my fourth straight win was special and now having the opportunity to go for a fifth seems unreal. 

“I cherish every Escape win and never take them for granted as this can be an unforgiving course. 

“Escape is one of my favourite races and it is even more special this year since my dad, brother and coach are all racing!” 

The race sets off from Alcatraz Island to the shoreline of Marina Green, with an 18-mile twisting bike ride through the Presidio, and then the trail run out to Baker Beach and up the infamous 200-plus step Sand Ladder.

To finish the race, athletes will follow a path back under the Golden Gate Bridge, pass Crissy Field and finish on the grass at Marina Green.

Professional fields include:

Women: Holly Lawrence (GBR), Jackie Hering (USA), Jodie Stimpson (GBR), Danielle Lewis (GBR), Megan Foley (USA), Ginger Howell (USA). 

Men: Ben Kanute (USA), Jason West (USA), Ben Hoffman (USA), Eric Lagerstrom (USA), Brent McMahon (CAN), Gregory Harper (USA), John Dahlz (USA), Austin Hindman (USA).