London 2012

triathlon

Simon Whitfield

Canadian Simon Whitfield has an impressive list of triathlon feats to his name, but after suffering defeat in Beijing in 2008, he will be seeking revenge this summer at the London Games.

Embarking on his triathlon career at the early age of 11, by 15 Whitfield was participating on a competitive basis, his experience paying dividends in 2000 as he was crowned Olympic champion in Sydney.

Fascinating Facts:

  • He is currently coached by Paulo Sousa, who has been referred to as "an evil genius"
  • He has won 10 consecutive Canadian Triathlon Championships titles
  • he was offered the opportunity to compete for Australia at the Sydney Olympics because of his dual citizenship

The event stood out at the Australian Games as Whitfield collided and crashed with14 riders in the bike stage but heroically managed to work his way back to the leaders, pick them off one-by-one and turn on a show-stopping sprint finish to take victory.

His final time of 1:48:24 stands as the fastest Olympic triathlon.

Whitfield claimed gold two years later at the Commonwealth Games in Manchstester although finished a disappointing 11th at the 2004 Athens Olympics.

The 36-year-old competed in his third consecutive Olympic Games in 2008, finishing second after a remarkable final 200m which saw him move from fourth into the silver medal position.

Simon Whitfield

  • DOB: 16/05/75
  • Event: Triathlon
  • Medals: Olympic gold 2000, Commonwealth gold 2002, Olympic silver 2008
  • Residence: British Columbia

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