Javier Gomez powers to second Triathlon World Series victory

Defending champion Javier Gomez claimed a second successive win in the ITU Triathlon World Series in Cape Town.

The Spaniard pulled away from Briton Jonny Brownlee with a burst of pace to finish 19 seconds ahead of the Olympic bronze medallist.

Brownlee, 24, said: "He was very impressive today. He was strong on the bike, strong in the swim and then on the run."

Russian Dmitry Polyanskiy was third, with Spain's Mario Mola fourth.

Gomez increased his Series lead over Brownlee, who also finished second in the season's opener in Auckland, New Zealand earlier this month.

The Olympic silver medallist revealed afterwards he was not confident at the start of the 10km run.

"I didn't feel very fresh I think we all were pretty tired," said Gomez. "I had heavy legs, but I just went as hard as I could on that third lap and I could make this little gap with Jonathan.

"Luckily, I could commit. I just didn't look back and went as hard as I could."

Local favourite Richard Murray stormed through the field after a disappointing swim and cycle to cross the line in fifth, while Great Britain's Aaron Harris finished strong in seventh place.

Jonny Brownlee's older brother and Olympic champion Alistair, 26, missed Cape Town with a calf strain, but is expected to race the next round in Yokohama, Japan.

In the women's race on Saturday, Jodie Stimpson saw off a fierce challenge from fellow Briton Helen Jenkins to increase her lead in the World Series standings after two races.

The next race will take place in Yokohama on 17-18 May.