(August 2, 2002)                                                                                              Hot News Main Page 

National Champion Adds Another Podium Finish

CARLSBAD, CA (August 2, 2002) Professional National Duathlon Champion Andrea Ratkovic finished second to Desiree Ficker at the formula one style Dannon Duathlon Everett. Formula One meaning, the athletes did multiple shorter segments as to only doing the traditional 2 or 3 duathlon format. The distances were 2 mile run, 10 mile bike, 2 mile run, 10 mile bike, 2 mile run, making this an exciting format and spectator friendly race.

Ratkovic fresh off winning her second professional duathlon national title two weeks ago, and recovering from Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever finished behind a newly recovered Ficker, who dominated the early season duathlons. After the first run which Ratkovic lead, Ficker used her quick transition and strong cycling skills to stay ahead of a fatigued Ratkovic.

Ratkovic is training for her first Ironman triathlon, felt fatigued from her long distance training. "My legs felt like lead, the entire race!" Ratkovic continued, Desiree was strong today and I could not catch on her on the down hills!"

Ratkovic who is leading in points in the Dannon Duathlon series, is not concerned, with the loss, especial with a few more races to go. "I did not taper at all for this race, but I definitely will for Worlds."

Andrea will be racing both long and short course World Championships and IRONMAN Florida this November.

[Source: Tony Kowalczyk at tony@mozaikgroup.com or 760-729-1046]