In a thrilling Women’s race that came down to the final stretch, Loughborough College student Cassandre Beaugrand claimed an incredible gold for host nation France with Loughborough University alumna Beth Potter winning a gutsy bronze for Great Britain.
In the Men’s event a short time later, University-based Alex Yee produced a sensational sprint finish for GB to overhaul New-Zealand rival Hayden Wilde to take a dramatic gold.
Beaugrand – who has also worked extensively with Loughborough Sport Support Services – crossed the line in one hour 54 minutes 55 seconds in front of a delirious home crowd on the Pont Alexandre III bridge.
Potter, the 2023 world champion, dug deep to hold on for a wonderful bronze in 1:55.10. Switzerland’s Julie Derron took silver (1:55.01).
Loughborough alumna Beth Potter poses on the podium during the Women's Triathlon medal ceremony. Credit: Abaca Press/Alamy Live News
Yee, who adds to his silver individual medal from Tokyo, crossed the line in one hour 44 minutes 33 seconds – ahead of both Wilde (1:43:39) and Bergere (1:43:43, France).
Speaking after the Women’s competition, Beaugrand said: “I just can’t believe it. I want someone to pinch me right now. I moved to Loughborough so I am used to riding in the rain now. It took me out of my comfort zone. The English people helped me a lot, so thanks to them.”
After the Men’s race, a jubilant Alex Yee said: “I’m so grateful to everyone who’s been in my corner for the past three years. That was for them.
"At 5km [on the run leg] I was going through a really bad patch and with 2.5km to go I thought I’m going to give myself one last chance at this and not give up, and here we are.
“I am still just that normal guy, I work hard at my sport and I just love what I’m doing.”
Alex Yee celebrates his victory after the Men’s Triathlon. Credit: Craig Mercer/Alamy Live News
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