Chase McQueen was in a different league at the supertri E World Triathlon Championship in London last weekend, as the American convincingly beat British star Max Stapley to the title.
Running his way to victory after building a substantial lead into the pursuit style final stage, the Boulder based pro was flawless across swim, bike and run in front of a great crowd at the London Aquatic Centre.
Reflecting on his win in a post race interview with TRI247, McQueen shared his hope that the victory will push him to greater heights this season as he chases an elusive spot on the US Olympic team to Paris.
“That result was my best”
Celebrating emotionally after the win, the scenes couldn’t have been more different to 12 months ago, when McQueen finished way down the field to miss out on the world title in London.
Analyzing his race this time around, the 26-year-old said he executed the heats in the morning exactly the way he wanted, which set him up perfectly for the final.
“I’m absolutely stoked; that result, that was my best. I had to be firing on all cylinders and after a good morning in the heats, I managed to save some matches and just got off to a good start in that first round and never looked back.
“I’ve always believed in myself but to actually execute on the day is a different story. I am super proud of myself to get ready for this, as the nine guys I beat in the final are really good athletes who work hard every single day.”
“It’s like a big break and is just the beginning”
Currently ranked World #74, McQueen revealed that he hopes this win will be the race that spurs him on to even bigger things, as the dark horse for the US Olympic team looks to push on this season.
“From here, I want to look at this as my big break. This is just the beginning, and I want to keep progressing from here. When you get some confidence and get the ball rolling things can really take off and I want to carry this momentum.
With a nod to supertri and the crowd in London, the American thanked both for their support and hospitality after a great day of racing across both events in the British capital.
“This city is amazing, the crowds are amazing and triathlon is such a big deal here. I am supper happy to do it in the city and it is very nice not to have to do butterfly as well!
“What a way to return here for me, it’s like closing the chapter. I have been thinking of this moment for so long after obviously having a rough go last year, and to close that page, get to the next page, makes a big difference.”
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