The Olympic Games at Paris 2024 provided spectacular triathlon action all the way, and Hayden Wilde was right at the very centre of it.
It would be an understatement to say the 27-year-old New Zealander came away with his reputation enhanced in every possible way after his incredible duel with Alex Yee in the French capital.
Wilde, so often having played second fiddle to his great rival from Great Britain, finally looked set to claim a victory for the ages when he surged clear of Yee on the run in the men’s individual race.
Yee and Wilde provide epic duel
But back came Alex with a never-to-be-forgotten final effort which caught and passed his fading rival as the baking midday heat started to take a toll.
Of course the story did not end there. Yee and Wilde provided one of the Games’ most enduring moments as they sat together on the blue carpet and shared a moment to talk about what they had just achieved. Something that nobody can ever take away.
Theirs is a spectacular rivalry, built not only around the highest standards of athletic brilliance, but also the highest levels of respect and sportsmanship. Something triathlon great Mark Allen spoke so eloquently about just recently.
Fast forward almost two weeks and the Games are now in the past, but those memories will live on. And Hayden for one is not about to forget.
Hayden Wilde on Paris 2024
‘The Falcon’ spoke about what Paris 2024 meant to him – and every other triathlete taking part – in a heartfelt post on his Instagram post. As ever, it was not just about him.
He wrote: “As the games closed a few days ago it’s that time to look back and let the good memories flow. Thank you for all the messages and support over the past weeks super overwhelmed. To my team thank you for everything was an absolute ride @thenzteam & @triathlonnz thank you for the belief.
“Also a massive shout to the lads & ladies that went to war over both races, the Olympics is a weird one, when you cross that line there are so many emotions from everyone and sometimes the sad mentions outweigh the happiness.
“But know that everyone single person who lines up should be proud, you all dedicate your whole life to get to that start line which is a feat in its own. So kudos to all athletes and coaches what an absolute ride.”
Never change Hayden…
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