Commonwealth Games: ‘I’m gunning for top 10,’ says Duffy

Triathlete Flora Duffy set her sights on the upcoming Commonwealth Games — and targeted a top-10 finish in Glasgow.

Duffy returned to ITU World Series action at the weekend with an encouraging top-20 finish in a high-class field in Chicago.

She knows the Commonwealth countries can boast a wealth of triathlon talent but believes her excellent form this season, which includes a host of XTERRA victories, will stand her in good stead when the race takes place on July 24 at Strathclyde Country Park.

“In terms of performance, I am hoping for a top-10 result, which I think I am more than capable of,” she told the Bermuda Sun.

“However, I have been struggling with a little injury over the past month, which has complicated my preparation. 

“The triathlon at the Commonwealth Games is very strong. The majority of the countries taking part are triathlon powerhouses so it will be a tough race, but I am hopeful I can pull out a solid result.”

As well as the momentum from this year’s racing and her training camp in South Africa, Duffy also has some treasured Commonwealth memories to fall back on.

She took part eight years ago in Melbourne, finishing a remarkable eighth.

That performance kick-started her career and Duffy says that experience means the Games also
have a special place in her heart.

“I am very excited to be selected for the Bermuda team, it is a special event to me and I hope to perform well.

“The last — and only —  other Commonwealth Games I went to was in 2006, which was my first ‘professional or elite’ level race. I was 18 years old and had an amazing race. That race turned a dream into a reality. Hence why the Commonwealth Games hold such importance to me.”

She added: “It is always an honour to represent your country. I love being from Bermuda and showing off the island through my racing. 

“It’s a place I hold close to my heart, so it fills me with a lot of pride when I get to line up with BER across my chest.”