2017 was the year of fun for triathlete Richard Murray, and also turned out to be the best of his career.

Rather than focusing solely on the World Traithlon Series, Murray explored a greater variety of events. “It was a very interesting year. Things did get a bit more serious than planned when I started to have some of my best results while ‘having fun’, but I had a lot of fun for sure,” said Murray.

He made his 70.3 debut earlier this year. “To be honest my first 70.3 event did not meet the expectations I had beforehand. I was keen to do a bit better and maybe podium or even win, but who would have guessed so many top professional athletes would have turned up. Finishing fifth was good, but my run time was not what I was planning. I will do better next time.”

Another brand new experience was the introduction of Super League Triathlon. Winning the first edition early in the season in Hamilton Island was one of the highlights of 2017 for Murray. Other big moments included a win at the Cape Town World Cup, a hat-trick at the New Plymouth World Cup and three WTS podiums. “It really was a very good year of fun!”

Murray is very excited with the prospect of the Super League in the coming seasons. “It was a great experience. I’m leading the rankings so far and I am keen to make sure that I stay up there. The new series is very refreshing and I believe that this will grow from event to event.” Murray finished third in the second event on Jersey Island. It was also the last race of his season.

Murray will make a few changes again to his planning for 2018. “I do have plans for another 70.3. And I will race in the Super League events as well as a few WTS events. There probably will be less Bundesliga races next year.”

READ MORE ON: richard murray triathlon