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Jelle Geens wins PTO's December Athlete Award

The final stretch of 2024 has left us with an unforgettable moment in international triathlon: Jelle Geens, the Belgian triathlete, was consecrated IRONMAN 70.3 World Champion in Taupō (New Zealand).

As a result of this triumph, the Professional Triathletes Organization (PTO) has awarded him the prize of Athlete of the Month corresponding to December.

This distinction not only rewards her fantastic performance in a very demanding season, but also reinforces Belgium's leading role on the world triathlon scene.

A Memorable Triumph in Taupō

El Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Taupō was full of excitement and surprises.

For much of the race, New Zealander Hayden Wilde held a convincing lead, but Jelle Geens managed his strength with a steady pace, especially during the run. With just a few kilometres to go before the finish line, he managed to catch and overtake Wilde, sealing a dream finish.

In his subsequent statements, Geens commented:

“It was an incredible day. I still need some time to absorb it; it is something I had dreamed of for a long time.”

With this victory, Geens signs his second major title of the season, after having won last October in the Lake Las Vegas T100.

It is now located in the fourth position of the PTO World Ranking, a remarkable record that reflects his progression in the middle distance.

PTO Recognition

La Professional Triathletes Organization Every month, it awards the most outstanding athletes for their achievements and contributions to sport.

In December, the choice of Jelle Geens was not easy, as other top-level competitors also appeared in the vote:

  • Taylor Knibb: Three-time IRONMAN 70.3 world champion and considered one of the most dominant triathletes of today.
  • Kat matthews: Second in her second world championship event this season and first winner of the IRONMAN Pro Series.
  • Morgan Pearson: A luxury debutant in the middle distance, with a resounding victory in Indian Wells 70.3, beating his compatriot Matt McElroy.

The Career of Jelle Geens

If there is something that defines Jelle Geens it is his Extensive experience in the ITU circuit (now World Triathlon).

He has competed against the best in the short distance for several years, proudly representing Belgium in a multitude of championships. However, over the past year and a half, he has been plagued by ups and downs that have tested his mentality.

Little by little, made the jump to the middle distance, demonstrating great talent for endurance and establishing himself as a difficult rival to beat.

His successes of 2024, with victories such as that of Lake Las Vegas T100 and the world title in Taupō, are testimony to this evolution. As he said after the championship:

"I've been in this sport for quite a while. I come from short distance and it hasn't been an easy road. But now, in my first attempt at middle distance, to become world champion is something incredible.".

The growth of Belgian triathlon

The deed of Jelle Geens It is not an isolated fact. Belgium has become one of the nations that is Driving world triathlon.

A clear example is that of Marten Van Riel, who was proclaimed champion in the inaugural edition of the T100 World Championship in Dubai last November 2024. Thanks to athletes like them, Belgium consolidates its position as a reference in high-level events.

This Belgian boom is reflected in the fourth place Geens in the PTO rankings and the good results achieved by Van Riel, putting the country on the lips of all fans.

Prospects for 2025

As the season comes to a close and the new year begins to take shape, the challenge of Jelle Geens It's about maintaining the pace and the good streak.

With an eye on future PTO events and middle and long distance races around the world, his name is increasingly being tipped to win.

Meanwhile, the support of fans, the specialized press and the recognition of the Professional Triathletes Organization reinforce the conviction that it has become one of the great references of today.

Drafting

Triathlon News Editorial: We are the award-winning team in 2019 and Best Triathlon Website, made up of communicators passionate about triathlon, with more than 14 years of experience. We strive to offer you the most accurate, relevant and up-to-date information, conveying the excitement and dedication that characterize this sport.
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