With a 19-point lead ahead of his closest competitor it is hard to imagine anyone else but Ali Day winning the Nutri-Grain Series.
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However the remarkable calibre and sheer talent of nine-time Nutri-Grain Series champion, Shannon Eckstein, and the raw determination of young gun, TJ Hendy, means there is still every chance that Day can be overtaken.
Fairhaven Beach in Victoria will host round four of the 2017-2018 Nutri-Grain Ironman and Ironwoman series.
Ali Day is a clear favourite for this weekend’s race due to the endurance format being Day’s signature strength that has seen him win the Coolangatta Gold a record five-times,” Day said.
“I am really happy with my position at the half way mark. Consistency has always been the key to a Nutri-Grain Series Championship and that has been my main focus this year.
“There is still a long way to go and you can’t rule out the talent of Shannon Eckstein and Matt Poole, but it is nice to be sitting on top and have a decent lead.”
Shannon Eckstein is in one of the most difficult positions of his career and even though he doesn’t look like getting that elusive 10th title this year you can never rule him out. He is capable of anything, which makes him a dangerous threat.
“The ankle is still not 100% right but much better than what I had to work with last round. I have been able to train a lot more through the holiday period and will work with what I’ve got,” Eckstein said.
“I’m not in the best position but there are still three rounds to go and anything can happen.
“I am gaining more and more confidence each round. I knew I did the work in the off season and really wanted to prove myself this year. I don’t feel like the pressure is on me anymore and I’m just enjoying racing.”
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