Posted: August 9, 2005

Triathlon: Filliol Goes Long

August 8 Victoria, BC, Canada:

Canadian triathlete Natasha Filliol, of Paris Ontario, has transitioned from the ITU draft-legal racing circuit to non-drafting and Ironman racing.

A former Canadian Junior Champion, Filliol has been a member of Canada’s Sr. National Team since 2001 and has been known for her top run splits. Highlights of her ITU career include a win at the 2003 Cancun World Cup, a Top Ten at the 2003 World Elite Championships and representing Canada at the 2002 Commonwealth Games and the 2003 Pan American Games.

Natasha at Ironman Florida, 2004 (Photo - NatashaFilliol.com)

Following a disappointing Olympic trials last season where she missed a spot on the Athens team, Filliol made her Ironman debut in Florida. Her performance was good enough for 4th place with a 9:37 clocking, including a 3:11 run, also her first marathon. With her Kona spot in hand the seed was planted for the switch.

With a long history of Canadian success in Ironman racing, Filliol says she hopes to follow in the footsteps of fleet footed Canadians such as Heather Fuhr, Lori Bowden, and Lisa Bentley by making her mark on the Big Island:

“The success of Canadian women such as Heather, Lori and Lisa has been a huge inspiration to me in my triathlon career. Kona is the ultimate challenge in our sport and although I know I have a lot to learn, I hope to be able to continue the Canadian success, and keep up the tradition of Canadian girls rocking on the run”

With a win at the non-drafting time trial format at the “Memphis in May” race, and her Half Ironman debut victory at the Spirit of Racine in extreme heat, Filliol 2005 season is now focused on the World Championships in October.

Coach and husband Joel Filliol of Competition Zone, who also guides multi-Ironman winner Tom Evans, and 2000 Olympic Champion Simon Whitfield, says Filliol is suited to the Kona conditions:

“Natasha has always excelled in the heat, and with her exceptional running economy, she has tremendous potential in Ironman racing. Her swim, a liability in ITU racing, turns to a strength in long course, and her bike is steadily improving”

More information on Natasha Filliol can be found at natashafilliol.com, including her daily blog, detailing her “Road to Kona”.