Multisports: Ellice and Rhodes in top finishes

New Zealand triathletes Clark Ellice and Bryan Rhodes enjoyed podium placings in international races over the weekend.

Ellice finished second in the San Sebastien international triathlon in Spain, while across the Atlantic, Rhodes finished second in the Med Express Mountaineer Half Ironman in the United States.

Ellice, from New Plymouth, continued his fine form as he chases a spot in the New Zealand elite team for the world championships in August. After a strong swim Ellice was overtaken by two Spanish athletes on the mountainous bike course.

One minute 30 seconds behind off the bike, Ellice produced an excellent 31min 01sec split for his 10km run to finish just 5sec behind the winner.

It was a good return to form for Rhodes who was forced out of the Eagleman Half Ironman two weeks ago when he was hit by a jetski during the swim.

He led out of the 2km swim in 26min 44sec before he was overtaken by in-form Australian Chris Legh on the 90km bike.

The Taupo triathlete dug deep over the 21km run to retain his second spot, a pleasing result as he builds for the Ironman world championship in October.

Rhodes now leaves for France to train at the Triathlon New Zealand training base in Limmoux, France.

- NZPA