Paul and Watt storm through Port Mac Half
In the end it was Watt the spoiler as he upstaged the hometown favorite in Tim Berkel. Berkel, who has been building a legend of his own with some good performances at home, failed to run down the lead set by a tiring Watt. With the first 3 men separated by less than 40 seconds the racing was on until the end. Only with 200 metres to go could Watt afford to relax and enjoy the win. For Berkel it was a case of what might have been falling 35 seconds short of a big win in front of his hometown crowd. Watt recorded his first win since 2005 and is looking forward to seeing his performance lift come April and Ironman Australia. Brian Fuller made up the trio only 7 seconds back behind Berkel.
Charlotte Paul in the women's event had a different story. She was clearly the marked women throughout the race but with the standard of professional women a little light on this season there was no one really to bother her. A comfortable win for her by around 4 minutes was a good hit out as she goes about her preparation for Ironman Western Australia.
The crowd really enjoyed the atmosphere and the fact that Crowie (Craig Alexander) was on hand. One athlete, who we shall not name, lost his mind and gave the world champ a huge hug on the podium. Don't worry Paul Robertsfrom Victoria, we'll keep your name quiet. Hey you won a prize out of it!
Results Men
- Cameron Watt 4.01.53
- Tim Berkel 4.02.31
- Brian Fuller 4.02.37
- Peter Loveridge 4.10.02
- Nathan Stewart 4.11.32
Results Women
- Charlotte Paul 4.36.28
- Tara Prowse 4.40.30
- Nicole Ward 4.43.14
- Anne Fellows 4.57.12
