In 1989, a small group of athletes arrived in the Swiss town of Zofingen to compete in the first long-distance “Run & Bike” event. Within a very short time, the event achieved a worldwide reputation. What "Ironman Hawaii" represents for triathletes is exactly what Zofingen signifies for duathletes, as the event was rumoured to be the “toughest” duathlon competition in the world. The Powerman World series (where athlete's qualify for Zofingen) is famous for its atmosphere and the extremely tough race courses. However, the Powerman is more than just a long-distance duathlon.It also stands for the annual comparison between triathlon and duathlon. It is the competition between men and women, using a unique handicap formula, which allows the best athlete to cross the finish line first. The Powerman Zofingen is a must for all duathletes, long-distance triathletes, and any other endurance athletes. With a punishing 10km first run in their legs, Powermen and women then take off on a 150km journey though the Swiss mountains, before returning to the transition area and embarking on the final 30km run.
Personally, Zofingen has always had a special place in my heart, having twice qualified to go in the past and not made the start line through injury and illness. Ive always vowed to race in the Elite wave there one day and put the demons to rest......Having put such a good winters base down this year and being quite literally in the shape of my life, I've have decided to go for the super hilly qualifying race on May 3rd in Luxembourg.
After qualifying in Luxembourg, the Quadrathlon season will kick in and take me up to 3 weeks before Zofingen, when I will stop my swim and kayak training, and focus for this last test of what's going to be a very special year!
