With the Paris Olympics just six months away, French athlete Cassandre Beaugrand delivered an astounding performance in the Derby Midweek race series in the UK, clocking an unbelievable 5km time.
Last year, Beaugrand showcased her racing prowess at the same event with an impressive time of 15:39. However, this year, amid a rigorous week of training, she managed to surpass her previous record.
Scheduled to participate in her first event of the season at WTCS Abu Dhabi in two weeks, the 26-year-old appears to be gearing up for the most significant year of her career.
“Great feelings in a big week of training”
Crossing the finish line in a remarkable time of 15:34, Beaugrand shaved five seconds off her previous year’s performance, securing the third position behind fellow triathlete Sam Hart and Jack Rowley of Invicta AC, both based in Loughborough.
This achievement further solidifies her reputation as one of the premier runners in the sport. As last year’s WTCS #2, Beaugrand reaffirmed her potential to be a formidable contender come the Olympics this summer.
After a setback at the Tokyo Olympics three years ago with a Did Not Finish (DNF), Beaugrand faces immense pressure as one of the prominent athletes representing the host nation along the banks of the River Seine in July.
Next up: WTCS Abu Dhabi
Following her sixth-place finish at WTCS Abu Dhabi last season, where she clocked 15:39, Beaugrand aims for an even stronger performance in the Middle East on March 8-9.
Renewing her rivalry with World Champion Beth Potter, who dominated the sprint and Olympic distances in 2023, Beaugrand will have an opportunity to assess one of her main competitors for gold in Paris.
Should the competition come down to a showdown on the run, Beaugrand will rely on her speed, especially after her outstanding performance this week. However, Potter boasts a notably faster 5k road personal best of 14:41. Regardless, the race promises to be a thrilling spectacle!
