World Triathlon Series: Wales' Non Stanford second in San Diego
- Published
Wales' Non Stanford produced a stunning sprint finish to take second place in the World Triathlon Series event in San Diego.
The 24-year-old edged out Australia's former world champion Emma Moffatt to secure her first WTS podium.
England's Jodie Stimpson was fifth, with American Gwen Jorgensen first.
"To have a sprint finish is always exciting. I put my head down and worked really hard, and just got there. I'm absolutely delighted," said Stanford.
The battle for second could not have been closer, as the Welsh athlete and Moffatt both finished in two hours three minutes and three seconds, though Stanford was adjudged to have edged fractionally ahead. Jorgensen won in a time of 1:59:59.
Stimpson was in contention throughout the race but faded in the closing stages. Her fifth-placed finish represents her best performance in a WTS race.
She said: "I'm satisfied with that. There are things that need to be worked on and it's disappointing not to make the podium but there's more to come.
"I knew Non was in good run form, so it was on from the word go and I was trying to stay calm. I also knew the gap wouldn't really come down until the last lap of the run, and we could see Moffatt by then so it was like having a rabbit to catch and nothing is over until it's over."
England's Katie Hewison, competing in her first WTS race, finished 29th.
The men's event takes place at 00:00 BST on Saturday. The race will be shown live on the Red Button and on the BBC Sport website.
- Published19 April 2013