Scholar Leon Chevalier reigns in Spain as stunning season of Ironman competition ends with course record and World Champs qualification
University of Bath sporting scholar Leon Chevalier capped a stunning season by setting a course record as he beat a championship field to win the Ironman Mallorca event in Spain.
The Chemical Engineering Masters student, who is supported by a Santander Scholarship, was one of only two athletes to break the eight-hour barrier for the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and marathon 26-mile run as he crossed the line in 7:59.03 to finish 56 seconds clear of his nearest rival.
That follows Chevalier’s course record and victory at The Embrunman in France, runners-up spots at the Alpe d’Huez and TriathLong de Royan competitions, and third-placed finish at Ironman UK.
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Those results mean that Chevalier, who trains with the British Triathlon Bath National Pathway Centre and represents France, has qualified for the 2021 and 2022 Ironman World Championships – both taking place next year – and is 22nd in the PTO (Pro Triathletes) men’s world rankings having started the year 420th.
“It’s been a hectic summer and one heck of a season,” said Chevalier, who is now back in Bath to pursue his academic work. “I’m looking forward to a little time off now before getting ready for next year.”
Click here to find out more about the scholarship programme at the University of Bath.
