Have you made your list for Christmas?
Today came news that even the most ardent triathlon fan might not have put on their Christmas list. 2016 Olympic champion Gwen Jorgensen will be returning to short course triathlon.
On Instagram, she wrote, “I am inspired by the mixed-team relay’s silver medal in Tokyo and aspire to contribute to that team in 2024. I believe team USA can be one step higher in Paris! This return is about more than just me. As a mom of two and long-time supporter of USA Triathlon, I strive to set an example that motivates and inspires my family, moms everywhere, and team USA.”
As the 2014 and 2015 world champion, Jorgensen brings immense gravitas to the field. In her time in the sport, she was routinely the best runner in the women’s race. It was no surprise then that following her retirement she pursued athletics full-time and at the 2021 US Olympic Trials she ran a personal best time of 15:08 in the 5000m on the track.
During her time away from the sport, Jorgensen also became a mother and recently gave birth to her second child in October.
Now 36 years old, it may be a challenge for Jorgensen to regain her former stratospheric levels in triathlon however nothing is impossible. Her return also sets an inspirational precedent for any female athlete that may look to capitalise upon World Triathlon’s new maternity policy in the future.
With her emphasis on the mixed team relay, it is clear that the Olympics will be a major goal for Jorgensen. Qualifying is by no means beyond her on paper. The first period in which she can score points closes towards the end of May 2023, giving her time to still record some vital points. Thereafter, she will have the entire second period to score points.
The American women are incredibly strong right now, led by Taylor Knibb and Taylor Spivey. However, Gwen Jorgensen proved herself time and time again as one of the greats of the sport.
Among her career highlights, Jorgensen had a 12 race WTCS winning streak and the accolade of being the only athlete to become world champion by winning every race of the season. If anyone can break into the US mixed relay, it could be her.
In her final race of her career, Jorgensen took silver at the WTCS Final in Cozumel in 2016. That day, the athlete that beat her was none other than Flora Duffy. Duffy has gone on to win four world titles, include most recently with the 2022 WTCS, and will present a formidable opponent for Jorgensen.
The prospect of the two going head-to-head will no doubt have fans salivating.
