I arrived in The Gold Coast on Monday at lunchtime, tired, hungry, drained and hoarse! I craved food and SLEEP! I raced in 20 million directions over the weekend, but it was worth it!

Burry Stander was dominate winning The Under 23 XC MTB World Championship Title. “The Kid” looked strong from start to finish was always in control and crossed the line with a big smile and a huge sense of relief. Burry was the favorite and sometimes being the favorite creates unwanted pressure and expectation. Burry did not disappointed though.

Lene looked sensational and rode so confidently. I was so proud of Lene and the way she has developed both on and off the bike. Leading for much of the race, only in the last half lap was she caught, by Irina. It was a very hard way for Lene to loose, but in the aftermath a silver medal is something to be very proud of.

Rafa did well to make the final and a crash relegated him to fourth. I realized afterwards, unless my facts are wrong, that not one World Champion managed to defend his or her title. Susi was unfortunately in the same boat, but going in we knew the cards were stacked against Susi. He has had a tough season, but 10th was still a great result. Todd Wells did very well to finish a career best 8th with the 3rd fastest lap in what was arguably one of the greatest MTB races seen in recent years.

On the final day all eyes were on downhill. The nature and design of the course was stacked against Sam Hill. It does not suit his racing style, but he did very well to finish fifth. Both Kyle Strait and Cody Warren also impressed, by finishing in the teens. Brendan was disappointed with his run.

It was great to see everybody again, but as I said I was shattered leaving Canberra. The Gold Coast has been cool so far, although I am only here a day. I spent most of yesterday afternoon with Jan Frodeno catching up, then last night met up with my old Coach Libby Burrell who is now ITU Development Director. Libby introduced me to the ITU Development Team, which is a really impressive story. The team are just off a 10 day training camp. I had breakfast this morning with Jan and then did a three hour ride. Damn the roads here are busy. I spent a lot of time scratching my head at the thoughts of The Gold Coast being one of the triathlon's meccas. Give me Stellenbosch any day! On the way back from my spin I bumped into the one and only Tim Don. Great seeing Tim again too.

I will keep you posted as The World Cup Series Final gets closer.