Jodie Stimpson praises coach ahead of World Triathlon Series
Jodie Stimpson today paid tribute to coach Darren Smith after her rise to the top.
The Oldbury ace races in Yokohama tomorrow aiming to extend her lead in the World Triathlon Series.
She has won the first two races of the season – Auckland and Cape Town – to sit first ahead of Helen Jenkins and Anne Haug.
Stimpson finished second in last year's series in her first season under Smith – after coming in 19th in 2012.
And the 25-year-old believes her coach has been a driving force for her rapid progress.
"When I joined Darren, this was a turning point and it is why I have improved so much after the London Olympics," she said.
"In Cape Town a lot went my way, I had a solid swim and the group worked well on the bike, I was lucky to then out sprint Helen.
"It was a tough race and I was pleased to come across the line a winner. Everything has been going well, training is good and I hope to have a good performance here."
Stimpson finished third in Yokohama last year and believes, after winning in South Africa last month, her preparation has been perfect.
"Last year I was in a sprint finish with Emma (Moffatt) but I hope for no more sprint finishes this year," she said.
"My training is going well, I have been in South Africa after the Cape Town race and I am looking forward to putting together a good performance here again on Saturday."
