Daniela Ryf runner-up in Dubai

Successful start into the new season for Daniela Ryf at the 70.3 Ironman in Dubai. The Solothurn native finished her first race in 2022 in second place, defeated only by German European champion Laura Philipp.  "It was a good start. Naturally, I would have preferred to win, but Laura was the better runner today. Most importantly, I am feeling healthy again”, explained Ryf in a post-race statement.

In Dubai, the defending champion went toe-to-toe with Philipp for much of the race, turning in a good performance on the bike.  The German proved to be too strong in the final semi-marathon, however, as she distanced herself from Switzerland’s four-time world champion. "I don't yet have the speed over the half-distance, and it took me a lap to finally settle into my rhythm”, so the 34-year-old, who is now off to training camp in Gran Canaria, where she’ll continue to develop her form.

Fotocredit: James Mitchell