Dallas, Texas- Boulder's 2008 Olympian Matty Reed etched his name in the triathlon books becoming this first American male to win the illusive Toyota Cup. Reed dominantly won the Dallas US Open race this morning sealing the Race to the Toyota Cup Series victory.
Reed had a solid lead coming into the Dallas US Open with his wins in Minneapolis and Chicago but with double points and $20K up for grabs, the field was stacked.
Two-time Olympic medalist Kiwi Bevan Docherty, three times series winner Australian Greg Bennett, Brit Stuart Hayes and 19 other guys lined up to try to grab the race victory. Reed knew it wasn't going to be easy.
"I knew that this race would draw the big names and I was prepared to race what I had to for the win today," Reed said. "I want to show I am versatile in all three sports and that I am here to stay in this sport at the top. I wanted the race win as well as the series win."
Reed exited the water second, leading a large group out and immediately asserted himself on the bike. A few big names didn't make the trailing pack on Reed and were forced to ride up to the 6'5" powerhouse.
"When I saw the pack near me, I just continued to drive hard and gapped the group. I had bad thoughts for a second or two but them realized I have prepared to race from the gun and knew I could ride hard and still run fast. I am prepared to run for the win if needed."
Reed got off the bike with roughly minute lead and got control of the run immediately. Reed floated through the 10km and enjoyed the last few miles, knowing his goals were met.
"I have learned to trust my training that I do, and I know that I must use that mentally to my advantage. I went hard till the turn around and calculated I had a 50 second advantage and was very pleased and wanted to just enjoy the last two miles."
Reed grabbed the tape with a big smile on his face. Australia's Bennett crossed in second 30 seconds back with New Zealand's Docherty in third.
For more information on Matty Reed, www.mattyreed.com.
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