Posted: August 25, 2005

Triathlon: Gillian Bakker local favourite at Subaru Ironman Canada

PENTICTON, B.C.- Okanagan resident Gillian Bakker, Winfield, B.C. comes into the 2005 Subaru Ironman Canada as the local favourite. The 36-year-old teacher has posted a number of podium finishes at the event, including the 2001 Championship.

With two Ironman victories to her credit, Bakker brings both experience over the Ironman distance and an intimate knowledge of the Subaru Ironman Canada course that covers much of the scenic Okanagan Valley.

Also competing in the 2005 Subaru Ironman Canada are two athletes who achieved top 5 finishes in last year’s race. Sara Gross of Edinburgh, Scotland is returning with the intention of bettering her 4th place position in 2004 and Pamela Ens of Vancouver, B.C is looking to move up from her 5th last year.

Penticton resident, Barb Scatchard, 36, has three 5th place finishes in the event, the most recent in the 2003 Subaru Ironman Canada. This local teacher will be facing her home course in an effort to break into the top three in 2005.

Subaru Ironman Canada is the oldest Ironman event in continental North America and will take place for the 23nd time in Penticton, B.C. on Sunday August 28. Athletes will be competing for 100 qualifying spots to the 2005 Ironman World Championship in Kona, Hawaii as well as a $75,000. (Cdn.) pro prize purse.

For more information, log onto www.ironman.ca.