Abu Dhabi Triathlon team member Jan van Berkel’s preparations for the 2012 London Olympics continue to gather pace as he successfully defended his 2009 Uster triathlon title in Switzerland last weekend.
After pulling off a hard-earned victory over a field of elite athletes, including finishing just half a second ahead of four-time Ironman Switzerland winner Ronnie Schildknecht, van Berkel said his latest victory also tested his readiness for the upcoming final ITU World Championship Series race in Budapest.
“My main focus is now on Budapest. With the presence of the best athletes in the world, I must be 100 percent prepared. And, as I also am aiming to improve on my position in the world rankings, I know a strong finish is essential to my Olympic hopes,” said the Dutchman.
“I have my sights fully set on Olympic qualification races next season, and I definitely intend to perform well at these types of events. Apart from chasing my Olympic dreams, I am already thinking about winning the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon again in March!” added van Berkel, who claimed victory in the UAE capital short distance event last March.
