Portuguese Star Vasco Vilaça Aims to Upset Triathlon Leader Matthew Hauser Today
The under-23 women's triathlon race kicks off today at 16:15 local time, featuring Portuguese athlete Inês Rico. In the men's category, Portuguese star Vasco Vilaça could secure the title if Australian leader Matthew Hauser falters.
Vasco Vilaça, currently third in the world rankings, aims to capitalise on any slip-ups by Matthew Hauser. Hauser has dominated the season, leading the rankings with 3,000 points. João Nuno Batista, another Portuguese athlete, finished seventh in the under-23 men's race at the World Triathlon Championships, completing the course in 1 hour, 45 minutes, and 33 seconds. He was aiming for his first under-23 podium after being junior world vice-champion twice in 2021 and winning the title in 2023.
The race was won by British athlete Oliver Conway, finishing 2 minutes, and 39 seconds ahead of Batista. Italian Euan de Nigro finished third, 13 seconds behind Hungarian athlete Márton Kropkó, who came in second, 39 seconds behind Conway. Brazilian Miguel Hidalgo is still in contention with 2,780 points, just five more than Vilaça.
Today's under-23 women's race begins with Inês Rico representing Portugal. In the men's category, all eyes are on Vasco Vilaça, Portugal's top hope, and Matthew Hauser, the season's dominant force. The outcome promises excitement and suspense.
