Emma Jackson's Race Report



I exited the water in first place. I jumped on my Merida bike not really knowing how much of a lead I actually had, but what I did know was that the bike leg was going to have to be flat out. As it turned out, I was by myself for the entire ride, unlike other years. Being alone made the ride difficult--I had no one to pace with, and I didn’t really know if I was going fast enough. All I knew was that I had to ride hard, hoping not to be caught.



The turnaround was the first and only time I saw where any of the other girls were. I noticed that Kate McIlroy was in second place. Melissa was a bit further back in the field, but she looked really good and was flying. I rode back into town, still in the lead after a solo 40 kilometres.

I was just about to dismount when I heard over the loudspeakers that Melissa was right behind me. I raced into transition and gained a few seconds on her before starting the run. My legs definitely didn’t feel as light as they had in previous ITU races, which I put down to the non-drafting format of this event.



In the end, I just didn’t have the legs to run away with the win. I finished second behind Melissa, who showed she is a very strong athlete. 



I am happy with my decision to finish off my season at Noosa. It a one-of-a-kind event where you're never short on support from the great crowds that gather here. I am now on break, looking forward to seeing what I can do next season, pursuing my dream of being selected to race for Australia at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. 



Thanks to all those that support the Noosa event, especially my personal sponsors. It's such a great race to be a part of.



Follow Emma Jackson on Twitter: @ejjacko