French triathlete Quentin Barreau and Ecuador’s own Elizabeth Bravo emerged victorious at Ironman 70.3 Ecuador, capping off a race that offered differing levels of intensity across the men’s and women’s fields.
Barreau Times Late Surge to Perfection
The men’s race delivered a compelling contest, even if the start list wasn’t stacked with the sport’s biggest names – something not uncommon for events in this region. Brazil’s Igor Amorelli looked poised to take the win after a strong bike leg, but it was Quentin Barreau who delivered a perfectly timed charge during the half marathon. Barreau crossed the line in 3:48:08, taking the tape two minutes clear of his closest rival.
Behind him, Brazil’s Fernando Toldi claimed second place in 3:50:10, while Mexico’s Rodrigo Gonzalez rounded out the podium with a 3:51:43 finish. Amorelli, after leading for much of the race, faded off the podium by the end of the run.
Bravo Cruises to Victory in Small Women’s Field
In the women’s race, just three athletes toed the start line, meaning a podium spot was guaranteed for any finisher. But even within the limited field, there was no denying Elizabeth Bravo’s dominance. The Ecuadorian star delivered a commanding performance, clocking a 4:26:39 to secure the win by a significant margin.
Mexico’s Lirany Gutierrez finished second in 4:40:45, with the USA’s Olivia Dietzel completing the podium in 4:53:58.
