After racing at the first French Grand Prix race of the season at the weekend, German athlete Bianca Bogen has confirmed that she is five months pregnant.
Bogen took to the start line for Les Tritons Meldois in Fréjus and came away with a 45th place. She noted that she made sure to steer clear of the main group in the water and on the bike as a precaution.
As per the frozen rankings introduced by World Triathlon’s new maternity policy, Bogen’s World Ranking will be maintained at 200th, the position she held upon the discovery of her pregnancy. The best result of Bogen’s career thus far was a 4th place at the Chengdu World Cup in 2018. Over the past couple of years, however, persistent injuries have plagued her career.
Last season, she seemed to be returning to some of her better form as she managed finishes of 12th, 11th and 12th across three straight European and African Cups. Given her age, though, her best form will likely be ahead of her.
Bogen was born in 1998 and so will have plenty of time to return to elite triathlon should she choose. Moreover having raced at the weekend, over halfway into her pregnancy, it is clear the sport remains a priority to her.
Ahead of the opening Bundesliga race of the season in Kraichgau this weekend, Bogen is not due to race. As such, Fréjus may represent the final race of her year. With the health of her and her future child the priority going forward, triathlon will likely take the back seat for a spell.
You can see Bogen’s full Instagram announcement below.
