British triathlon star Joe Skipper excited by IRONMAN Chattanooga return despite ‘terrible penalty decision’

Joe Skipper is back after returning to elite triathlon action on Sunday with a seventh-place finish at IRONMAN Chattanooga.

The 36-year-old British star had been out of action since taking a break after a disappointing performance in Lake Placid in July. At that point he feared his 2024 season was over, so being back on the start line in Tennessee on Sunday was a huge boost.

With the swim cancelled due to the impact of Hurricane Helene, the race turned into a bike time trial followed by the traditional marathon run to finish. Skipper was going nicely on the bike before his day was spoiled a little by what he called the “terrible decision” to award him a 60-second penalty for blocking.

Joe Skipper on Chattanooga

Writing on his Instagram account, he explained: “I got into a good rhythm and decided to ride a well paced tt and then hopefully feel good on the run and put together a good marathon.

“However after 30 minutes while doing my own thing a Marshall gave me a 60s penalty for blocking which I thought was a terrible decision as I was on the front and didn’t know anyone else was behind me. This to me was the only bad mark on the race and I think marshalls need to be accountable when they make poor decisions.”

That decision cost Joe a couple of places, and he would eventually come home in seventh place as American ‘Big Unit’ Sam Long took the win. The Norwich man though was delighted with how his day turned out.

Joe delighted with return to action

Joe said: “Ended up finishing 7th and actually felt pretty good but honestly that was where my fitness was. Ingot out what I had and enjoyed the race and am looking forward to getting fitter and back on a start line next year. It was a good way to finish the season and I’m excited for what lies ahead! Congratulations on the podium, @samgolong winning what turned out to be a very close race by 20s to @cody.beals and Andy Drietz putting together one of the best runs of his career to finish in 3rd!

“Would also like the say thanks to everyone for the support at all the races and following along.”