Rudy Project pro triathlete Heather Jackson made history at the 2016 IRONMAN® World Championship as she crossed the finish line in third, making her the first American female to podium in ten years. Jackson’s final finishing time was 9:11:32.
Jackson began the day with a solid 58:56 swim, which placed her six minutes behind the lead pack. After a tough battle on the Queen K highway, Jackson rolled into T2 in third place with a 5:00:31 bike split, putting her 14:02 behind the current leader and eventual champion Daniela Ryf. Jackson went on to hold her position on the run, even jumped ahead to second place for a period of time, but was eventually passed by three-time World Champion and renowned runner Mirinda Carfrae. Jackson kept her game face on as Carfrae was the only competitor to pass her, and she eventually ran down the finishing chute with a 3:07:48 marathon split. Jackson was the first American female to cross the line at this year’s race, thus making her the first American female to podium in ten years since Desiree Ficker in 2006.
“Heather has had an incredible season and put so much into racing well in Kona,” said Chris Lupo, Director of Sports Marketing for Rudy Project North America. “She had a great race here last year, finishing fifth overall. Heather’s performance is very significant for U.S. triathlon, and all of us Rudy Project are so proud of her and her amazing race!”
Jackson went to battle on Saturday wearing a custom Wing57 aero helmet and Rudy Project’s award-winning Tralyx performance sunglasses. Both gear pieces are favorites amongst pros and amateurs alike, as the Wing57 has earned numerous accolades such as ‘Best Triathlon Helmet’ from Gear Patrol and the Tralyx was recently awarded a ‘Perfect 10’ from Cycling Active magazine. “The Tralyx is super light and comfy, and it is really easy to swap out different tinted lenses depending on the weather,” Jackson shared with Rudy Project before the race. “These have become my absolute go-to sunglasses.”
Rudy Project congratulates Heather Jackson and all the competitors at this year’s IRONMAN® World Championship. You can purchase your own Wing57, Tralyx, and many other of Rudy Project’s tried and trusted triathlon essentials at e-rudy.com or any authorized dealer. Stay tuned for a full Kona recap highlighting all of Rudy Project’s athletes and achievements at this year’s race.
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