Yokohama Highlights Triathlon: World Series

It will be a first ever win for the Spaniard. The first race of 2016

brings victory to Non Stanford of Great Britain. So far this year the

world triathlon series has been a tale of two nations, Britain winning

all the women's races and Spain winning all the men's. The last time

out in Cape Town it was Non Stanford and Fernando Alarza who took the

honours. Whichever nation takes the win it a case of last chance saloon.

Two years ago the Olympic qualification window opened and as

Quins did would have it in your Cole Hammer. And it closes this weekend.

-- in your Cole Also in action Mario Mola and

Fernando Alarza. In the women's race none of the star British names on

the start line but Gwen Jorgensen is looking to get back to winning ways

after the shock defeat in the Gold Coast. Extensive highlights of both

races coming your way soon. I have come to one of the sporting capitals

in the UK, Loughborough University to catch up with a couple of

Britain's para triathletes. Good to see you again George, Loughborough

University, perfect place for your preparation? Yes, it's altogether,

the English Institute of sport, the athletic track, it's all

centralised. So it is a hub? Yes, it's been going for a couple of

years, it's where more of the para triathletes are based. What is your

daylight, you have three sports to prepare for? Swimming every weekday

and sometimes on a Sunday and that is what most of the people do. We

ride three or four times a week, we also ride up at the airfield which

is good for close environment, good time trial efforts. All the running

around here, we have got the track and all these facilities so it's all

really nice. You are in the PT four category, what is that? It is for

below elbow and baloney impairments, I have a lonely impairments -- below

the knee impairments. So you are strong in the first two but not so

good in the running? Yes, I smashed the swim and a bike and then hold on

for dear life during the running for as long as possible. And I

understand you train with the able-bodied athletes? Yes, I do most

of my swimming and cycling with the able-bodied athletes.

of my swimming and cycling with the idea of what sort of shape they are

in? They are both in good shape, if they can do what they can do the

will have good results. I know Adam has raced there are five times and

come top ten. I know he likes the course and it will be good for Matt

to go out as well. You won your first race down under, how did that

go? It was good, we went out ten days before the race so got

acclimatised before the race. It was nice training, out of the good

group, my coach, it was all settled before the event so we could get

used to the time difference. Nine hours, so getting used to that has

been a big thing. Brazil is the goal, not yet selected, what do you

need to do to get on the plane? I need to have really good performance

in a couple of weeks at the European Championships in Lisbon, long as I

do well and I have got the win in Australia and then my world results

from last year, hopefully that gives me enough points for an automatic

slot. Good luck. We will have news on the European Championships in the

programme on June 12. But let's focus on events in Yokohama, these

are the men's standings going into round four.

Jonny Brownlee is missing this weekend. But he is just about in

touch with the top two. As I mentioned earlier, still no

obedience of Xavier Gomez which means she cannot win his world title

because you had to compete in five races to do that. I think it's fair

to say that in this Olympic year at the World Championship gold medal is

very much secondary. Let's get on with race highlights.

COMMENTATOR: Very pleasant day in Yokohama, Japan's second-largest

city as we prepare for the fourth round of the 2016 world triathlon

series. This is the course, swimming two collapse in the harbour, exiting

after lap one to dive back into the water for the second half. The 40

kilometre bike course takes them on nine laps of 4.5 kilometres on the

flat, generally around the Yokohama waterfront. They will then hang up

the bikes and run the full distance of 10,000 metres, a ten kilometre

run to round things off which is made up of four collapse of 2.5

kilometres each. -- four laps. The countdown is well underway. Adam

Bowden one of four British men in the race, he wears number 11 for

Great Britain. We will keep you up to date with the progress of him and

the rest of the British quartet as the race unfold. They are underway,

the first lap of two. Frantic the race unfold. They are underway,

can barely see them as they disappear behind the wall of water.

One or two getting punched and pushed out of the way. The early

pace may come from Henry keep an eye out on the Frenchman who

finished third in Cape Town. The water is a bit choppy but the air

temperature is pleasant enough. No requirement for wet suits here in

Yokohama. The paddle boards circling the athletes as they begin the first

lap. Heading towards the first turn which can be interesting especially

you are trapped on the inside. The place to be is out in front where

you can make a clean and unhindered turn. It's the American, Ben Kanute

holding the position. He will turn without much company not having to

worry about shoulders and elbows. You can see the guys getting caught

on the inside and sometimes you need brute strength to drag yourself out

of potentially dangerous. Coming in numbers. Arms and elbows flying

everywhere, it can be nastier. They will exit after 750 metres, dive

back in for the second half. The British athletes to watch out for,

Adam Bowden wears number 11. Thomas Bishop has 38, sharp has 50, Gordon

Benson has 58. Benson and airship are of the men fighting for third

place within the men's Olympic team alongside Alistair Brownlee and

Jonny Brownlee. One of them will be selected to act as a pilot athlete

and assist the Brownlee brothers in their quest for more Olympic medals.

Have to have very strong swims here today. Mario Mola of Spain, the

current world number one having a pretty decent swim by the looks of

things. Going back to pretty decent swim by the looks of

Bishop, the important thing is that they have very positive swims

because if they are going to pilot the Brownlee brothers they need to

be out of the water with them in the Olympics. Two of the top ranked

Spaniards, Mario Mola number one, Fernando Alarza number two. There's

a real battle on within the Spanish ranks to join Gomez and Mario Mola

who are already pre-selected to join the Spanish team. One spot left.

It's likely that decision will be taken on the basis of what happens

here in Yokohama. Approaching the end of the first lap, the first man

out is Ben Kanute, everybody glancing over their shoulders to see

where their competitors and compatriots are. Gordon Benson of

Great Britain having the swim of his life in third place, don't think

we'd ever seen that before from him. Gordon Benson off to a storming

start, already well on his way in the second lap. The remaining

triathletes running along the blue carpeted pontoon and diving backend

for the second lap of 750 metres. They are all out and back in. Henri

Schoeman now leads the way, are we expected to see him emerge as one of

the strongest swimmers early in the contest but he's left it until the

early stages of the second lap to forge his way at the front. Cutting

a decent pace through the water. The athletes are little more spread out

so hopefully there won't much be to argy-bargy. Henri Schoeman pushing

the pace, senses the urgency because you want to break up this big pact

before you go out on the you want to break up this big pact

twisty corners and roads of Yokohama. Henri Schoeman of South

Africa, always a strong contender in the waterborne element of the

triathlon. Manages to stay with the leading riders most of the time on

two wheels and then starts to fade when it comes to the run but I know

he's been working hard and is determined to improve that area in

the build-up to the big games. In front of the great ship which is

mirrored here, it's a permanent museum in Yokohama harbour. The

calamari. -- Hikawa Maru. Henri Schoeman has taken a slight detour,

choosing a different path towards the pontoon. We have seen this a

couple of times recently where athletes have taken different

directions, different trajectories in the water. Sometimes it can come

back and bite them. Henri is an experienced swimmer and perhaps has

inside knowledge. He still looking pretty wide to me. Looks like Ben

Kanute has taken the lead. On the left of our screens we cannot see

him but it's Henri Schoeman of South Africa. Benson was up in third

coming out of the water, interesting to see where he finds himself at the

end of this swim. Henri Schoeman having to readjust his line, coming

out of the water a second. I think that was a loss of concentration.

But he still in contention. Gordon Benson holding on, still in third

position, what a swim for Gordon Benson who trains with the Brownlee

brothers. What a start he has made, Gordon

Benson coming into transition just behind Ben Kanute. Behind them,

Pierre Le Corre on the right coming out of the water. We will have to

wait a while to see Mario Mohler, who was on his way to

wait a while to see Mario Mohler, now. Matt Sharp in 45th. It is a

mixed bag for the British quartet in the early stages here. There is

Fernando Alarza, number two, coming out of transition. Still no sign of

Mario Mola. He has work to do now to pull himself back to the front of

the pack as they begin the first lap. We have been used to seeing

Mola up there on the swim. He had a superfast transition and made up

some good places there. What a season Mola has had. Victory in Abu

Dhabi, backed that up in the Gold Coast. In Cape Town, a race that was

won by his compatriot Alarza, with Jonnie Brownlee third. On their way,

the first lap of 4.54 kilometres. The way they look at the moment, I

wouldn't be surprised if we get a large group forming in the early

stages. Lots of tight turns which can be troublesome in the wet but

should be safe enough in dry conditions today. It was really all

about someone taking the lead at the front and deciding they are

about someone taking the lead at the get some order in the front pack. If

you don't do that early in the race, it is hard to get a big gap from

the second pack and they are going to have to work hard. Great to see

Gordon Benson doing a good job, alongside Henri Schoeman from South

Africa, but the athletes are piling up behind them. We could have most

of the field involved in one big group by the time they sort

themselves out early in lap two, as they come to the end of lap one.

What a start from Gordon Benson, leading them through, with Henri

Schoeman second. We will keep an eye out as the

second lap unfolds for the union flags, but Gordon Benson is the best

of the British boys so far. What will the selectors be looking for

here? It is between Bishop and Benson. What will the selectors be

looking for in the role of a pilot athlete in Rio? They are looking for

an intelligent athlete that can read the race, see what is going on and

adapt as the race goes on. Benson is doing a great job at the moment. He

could perhaps be looking out for Bowden. At the moment Henson is the

man in the running for me. It is no use for him going to Rio as the

pilot athlete and being 20 seconds off the pace in the water. He has

proved he can finish with anybody out of the water. Absolutely. He has

done the right thing, he has worked hard which is key because we know

the Brownlees when they are on form, and Thomas Bishop has worked his way

to the front of this pack, but as I was saying, it is important that any

athlete that goes with the Brownlee Brothers can swim with them. Seven

laps to go and both Bishop and Benson, who are vying for Olympic

selection, are up near the front of the field. Plenty for the selectors

to ponder as the race unfolds. It will certainly be interesting for

the selectors. We know that Benson trains regularly with the Brownlees.

Bishop doesn't train with them. Both doing a good job here today. This

group includes both Bishop and Benson and we will get a look at the

time difference between the lead group and the chasers. At the moment

it is ten seconds. We will get an official time gap when they hit

transition at the end of this lap. It looks as if that group of two

will soon merge into one. That will give us a total of about 60 riders

or thereabouts, or jockeying for position in the second half of this

cycle stage. We are at the end of lap three, after 39 minutes of this

world triathlon series. Round four of the world tour here in Yokohama

and Gordon Benson is back in front. Good ride so far from Mario Mola.

Massive group, all the big names are in there. Now, all sorts of Olympic

qualifying criteria to be met. Not just within the British Federation

but across the board. Nothing is decided for many of these guys out

but across the board. Nothing is here today. Somebody can come

through, produce the run of a lifetime. They can break on the

bike, give themselves a good chance going into the run and maybe launch

a last-ditch effort to get qualified for Rio. Look at the slowness of

this turn now. Everybody being cautious. We are on lap six and one

of the Japanese athletes has made a little break. He has opened up a gap

of three or four seconds. It is Jumpei Furuya of Japan leading the

Yokohama triathlon. The Japanese have Olympic selection on their

minds as well. Jumpei Furuya isn't totally committed to this break, you

can tell by how much time he is spending looking over his shoulder

before he gets spending looking over his shoulder

obviously wants to make a point. If you are going to go, you have got to

go properly, you cannot spend half your time looking over your

shoulder. It is great to see Bishop in first, Benson, then it looks like

it was Adam Bowden behind him. From the helicopter shot you can see just

how large this front group is. Anything can happen this afternoon,

and Kyle Jones of Canada has pulled out, which has ramifications. If he

doesn't finish, the Canadians will have one fewer Olympic spot

available to them in Rio. That is a big DNF for Kyle Jones. So many

stories unfolding. Triathlon made its Olympic debut in Sydney in 2000

and has been a regular feature of the Olympic programme ever since. It

is the biggest event in this sport. Matthew Sharp has dropped down to

13th position. Still not too far off the pace. Gordon Benson still

plotting his course at the front and forcing the pace of the race. Gordon

Benson is ushering some of his compatriots through. He, I think, is

keeping an eye out for Matthew Sharp, who is a few places back.

Perhaps Gordon Benson will take Matthew Sharp under his wing and

potentially pilot him towards the front of this race. He is showing

his Olympic credentials. This is what the selectors want him to do in

Rio if they pick him. Yes, Matthew Sharp having a great

race in Spain, winning that just a month or so ago. They know he has

good running form, hence why Benson is looking back, saying where are

you, I'm going to give you a tow up to the front. Yamamoto has had a

break. He wasn't joined by anybody. Maybe he was hoping for some company

potentially from Jumpei Furuya, who made the break earlier, but it was

half-hearted. It is the end of the final lap. Just about 40 kilometres

complete. They will need to look out in transition with such a massive

group arriving within a few seconds of each other. Gordon Benson's work

is done. He has had a superb race in his role as pilot athlete, taking it

easy now at the back of the field as the stronger runners jostle for

position and aim to be near the front of the pack ready for when

they hang up their bikes. The last front of the pack ready for when

of the 1600 metres for them to ride, then hopefully quick in and out of

transition before the run to come. These British athletes have made it

a very honest bike race because the pace has been on for the full 40

kilometres. No letup at all and that has been great to see. Adam Bowden

just coming in. It is important to stop and get off before that line.

One or two wheels getting tangled up. We have seen injuries happening

to athletes over the years in the frantic procedure of transition.

Let's have a look at Mario Mola, in and out of transition. He dons the

familiar white visor and he's in a great position. He has Kanute for

companies. An mass of athletes. Alarza, the winner the last time out

in Cape Town, it is in about 15 position. On their way and Mola has

quickly established his position at the front of the field. Yes, a very

familiar sight, those flapping arms. Interesting to see Kristian

Blummenfelt, the bronze-medallist from the European Championships in

2015, he appears to be having an impressive run so far. Henri

Schoeman from South African, not yet made the podium, has had some top

six finishes. Could this be his race here today in Japan? Two British

athletes in the top five, as they round that tight bend we have seen

them go around so many times on the bike. We will see plenty of Kristian

Blummenfelt here this afternoon. Not only did he have that victory in

Spain, he has had plenty of racing. He then went to Sardinia to the

capital, and won the World Cup, which is the sort of second division

of world triathlon. That was just a few days ago on the 8th of May so he

is full of confidence at the moment. Despite his efforts in Madrid and

Sardinia, he seems to be still full of energy. Kristian Blummenfelt, the

Norwegian, in second position, on the shoulder of the world number

one, Mario Mola. Yes, only 22 years of age, he has

one, Mario Mola. Yes, only 22 years around about 2012. As yet we haven't

seen him anywhere near the podium, certainly in the world triathlon

series. Fernando Alarza. Ahead of him, Henri Schoeman.

Henri Schoeman working on his run in the last few months, taking on board

some energy gel to try and give himself something extra and now some

water. Still looking for Olympic qualification, Henri Schoeman. Mario

Mola out in front, Kristian Blummenfelt of Norway, they have

opened up quite a lead over the rest of the field. The next group

contains Henri Schoeman and Fernando Alarza, and Pirlo core is in there

as well. -- Pirlo so much at stake for so many

athletes here this afternoon. Let's see what the lead that Mario Mola

and Kristian Blummenfelt have, it is ten seconds.

Mario Mola with just Kristian Blummenfelt for company. The

Norwegian is having to grit his teeth as Mario Mola puts another

element of pace into his run and this times it seems

element of pace into his run and Blummenfelt is unable to respond,

furthered back down the field, Fernando Alarza trying to move clear

of Le Corre, who in turn is trying to move clear of Henri Schoeman. Not

having it all his own way to day, Mario Mola swinging his arms and

stamping his authority on this race. Kristian Blummenfelt is the man of

the race for me, he's a big guy, much more known for his cycling

skills than his running skills. Two laps to go. Mario Mola the dominant

figure in world triathlon so far this season, winning in Abu Dhabi

and on the Gold Coast. He's the man to watch as Kristian Blummenfelt,

the gutsy Norwegian grits his teeth and tries to keep daylight between

himself and Fernando Alarza, Le Corre and Henri Schoeman. Crisanto

Grajales can be a very effective runner and is currently sixth out

right. Adam Bowden a bit further down the field. The race beginning

to spread along the streets of Yokohama. Two laps to go. Halfway

through the run and Mario Mola is clear of Kristian Blummenfelt.

Kristian Blummenfelt having to work really hard here, I don't think he

is safe in second. Looks like he could be easy prey for the men

closing him down from behind. Some of the faster runners behind,

Fernando Alarza and Christian Grigio was -- Crisanto Grajales will be

thinking they can catch him. They have work to do if they are going to

get onto Kristian Blummenfelt but Kristian Blummenfelt having the race

of his life. Le Corre of France also running strongly. Mario Mola a lone

figure at the front of the field with just the motor cycle camera for

company. Kristian Blummenfelt has a separate motor cycle filming him.

It's Crisanto Grajales who is closing him down. Another place

could fall for Kristian Blummenfelt. Perhaps the effort of his World Cup

racing is beginning to take its toll, three races in three weeks for

Kristian Blummenfelt. Crisanto Grajales looks the fresher of the

two as he sets his site on the stealing second position from the

Norwegian. Mario Mola a bit of a lone figure as he goes across the

blue carpet, the finish of the third lap, just one lap to go, 2.5

kilometres. Mario Mola looks really comfortable, not heavy breathing.

Light and live, quite a contrast to the physique and trials and

tribulations been suffered at the moment I Kristian Blummenfelt, the

Norwegian. It won't be long before Cassandra her allies -- Crisanto

Grajales take second place. He will move up from third to second.

Fernando Alarza another one having to work hard, Henri Schoeman has had

a good run this afternoon. Further back down the field we can see

Dmitry Polyanskiy. Joe Maloy of the United States of America. Adam

Bowden currently 13th position officially at this stage. I'd

confront its Mario Mola who's looking for yet another win.

Crisanto Grajales is right on the shoulder of Kristian Blummenfelt and

he looks full of running over the final stages, the last lap of this

10,000 metre run. Now the Mexican makes his move and I'm not sure

Kristian Blummenfelt is able to respond. Yes but he's not giving up,

it's an impressive performance not least because not six days ago he

was racing in Sardinia. Crossed many miles to get to Yokohama but no sign

of any jet lag. What determination from Kristian Blummenfelt, deep into

his reserves of strength and stamina. Meanwhile it's all quite

easy for Mario Mola. Showing his prowess here in Yokohama. Kristian

Blummenfelt with telling glance over his shoulder, might have given up on

second place but will be absolutely determined to hold on to third as

Crisanto Grajales injects more pace. Mario Mola is on his way to another

world triathlon series win here in Yokohama. Mario Mola has timed his

race to perfection this afternoon. It will be a fast winning time. Last

year his compatriot Gomez won in a time of one minute 47 flat, it will

be possibly quite late quicker than that. Depends how easily he takes

the final straight. Taking the applause of the crowd who has

gathered on the finishing line. He enjoys the moment, Mario Mola

reinforcing his position as the world number one with another

dominant performance. He world number one with another

transition after his 40 kilometres cycle, full of running, timed his

entry and exit to perfection. Mario Mola will take his sixth world

triathlon series win to reinforce his position as the world number

one. And it will be a first ever podium place for a Mexican

triathlete at a world triathlon series level as Crisanto Grajales

comes home for second. A determined effort from the overworked Kristian

Blummenfelt, three races in quick succession, he's on the podium in

the world triathlon. Jacob Birtwhistle finishing in fourth

forestry earlier. Fernando Alarza continues his excellent season in

fifth, ahead of Le Corre, Henri Schoeman in seventh, the South

African. Followed by Dmitry Polyanskiy. Then Ryan Sissons of New

Zealand. Rounding out the top ten will be Tyler Mislawchuk of the

United States of America with his compatriot Joe Maloy in elephant.

12th place today for Adam Bowden, the best of the British triathletes

in Yokohama. Mario Mola winning in Yokohama.

Bryan Keane 20th for the Republic of Ireland which qualifies him for the

Olympics. I am very happy with how things went

today. I think I managed to do a good swim. I was able to stay at the

front of the pack, the British guy did a great job in front so it made

it a bit easier to stay there. Then the run, felt great so I can't be

happier. It's an amazing race, he was running very fast and I was

trying to make him do some work because it was quite windy but he

told me he wasn't feeling it so I did the race and it worked. I am

very happy, my first podium in the World Series, I am very happy for

me, for my coach, my family, my country. I am very, very happy. It's

a hard course, I am happy. I thought I had a chance on the run, I'd been

in good running shape and had some good sessions. I'm a bit surprised I

managed to get a medal after being 40 guys off the bike. It was a brave

tactic to hang onto the back of Mario for that long. To begin with

it felt quite easy, so I thought I will try to hang on and see what

happens. I am very pleased with how things are going, I know it's a long

way to the Olympics but my goal at the beginning of the season was to

keep working and racing as I have in the past. I think it works so why

change what you know normally works. I will keep working for the next

couple of months, now focusing on the Olympics and we will see what

happens. The final Olympic qualifying race ends with victory

for Mario Mola, his place in Brazil is a sure do. Others have staked

their claim. Jessica Ennis-Hill is back on top of

the world. Jessica Adams has just made history.

Goldberg Kenya! His 18th Olympic gold medal. Usain Bolt gets there!

They are world champions again! The Olympic champion! Laura Trott

crosses the line as the world champion! Mo Farah streaking away!

Just 82 days to go until the start of the Olympic Games and 115 until

the start of the Paralympic games. So far two British para triathletes

have met the criteria. Alison Patrick in the PT by category and I

have come to her house to say hello. -- PT five category. Congratulations

on meeting the selection criteria, is the excitement starting to build?

Yes, it's getting closer, starting to set strong goals for the next

blocks of training. Focusing on the end goal of the Olympics. In terms

of your condition how happy are you with you are at at the moment?

Europeans in a couple of weeks but for me that's not important for

getting selected so I am in quite an aerobic block of training, I feel

like I am getting stronger, still making gains. In terms of the course

in Brazil, you will know it, you competed in the test event, how well

does it suits you? It's very technical from the bike by her view

which in the past I would have said is not our strongest as appealing,

on the tandem, but we are getting better. The turns are coming quite

good, very synced. Excited. I love biting and have always fancied a

tandem, tells about the dynamic of riding one? I don't know the

difference because I don't ride and normal bike, but you just have two

trust the person in front of them. We have commuter tandem we take back

and forward to training and we have race bike which is much lighter and

faster. In terms of your visual impairment,

how much support do you need in terms of day to day living? Is it

varies. I can get about by myself, walking about takes a bit longer, it

would take a good half hour to walk to university. The paratriathlon

seems to be working really well. It is such a better environment, I have

someone to run with for all of my sessions so I don't have to worry

about pace and judging things by myself. Swimming is phenomenal

because every session is coached so technique points can be brought up

every session, whereas before it was sporadic. Then cycling again, there

is always some -- someone to cycle with. Is it tends with Rio around

the corner? Yes, you want to know who your team-mates are going to be.

Obviously living with George, who is waiting to find out if he will

qualify, you feel for him. Good luck with your preparations and we will

see you in Rio. Women's race highlights from

Yokohama coming up shortly but first he is a cheeky reminder of which

nation is dominating women's triathlon in 2016.

Jody Stimpson is starting 2016 with an absolutely brilliant performance

here. Jenkins takes the victory on the Gold Coast. Our team is so

strong. We are blessed to be Great Britain. There is still more to

come, which is quite exciting. Unbelievable start of the season for

the British women. It has been quite a season and who

knows what else is to come. No British women in Yokohama, give

everyone else a chance, including the reigning world champion, Gwen

Jorgensen. Everyone is fascinated to see how she will go in Japan after

that shock defeat to Jenkins in the Gold Coast.

Here is our guide. There might not be any Brits taking part but there

is still a great deal to look forward to in the women's race.

Every past winner from Yokohama is taking part. Of these three, when

has knocked -- Gwen Jorgensen has notched up the most victories. After

finishing third in the Gold Coast, Andrea just needs to continue

building for Rio. But for lease there is a lot more at stake.

Injuries have kept her from competing to the best of her

abilities since 2012 and this is her last chance to qualify for Rio. Emma

Moffat is another athlete who always performs well in Yokohama, she has

made the top four every time she has raised here. The attention is on the

other Australians competing as she has already qualified for Rio. The

Australians have strength and depth so expect them to be fighting just

as hard for the right to take part in the Games. It is also a big day

for the Americans with one place on their team to be determined. If

Zaferes can beat her compatriots, she will be chosen. But it is far

from certain to occur. None of the top four in the women's

standings are competing this weekend so it will be Ashleigh Gentle

wearing the number one as she battles it out to earn a spot on the

Olympic team. Stimpson battled back brilliantly after finishing second

in Cape Town. She now has her attention is firmly set on the World

Series and is perfectly placed to fight for her first world title,

which will be decided at the grand final in Mexico in September. So,

here are the race highlights. COMMENTATOR: Here is the start list.

Ashleigh Gentle has the number one. And they are under way. No wet

suits, the water sufficiently warm as they dive into Yokohama harbour

in the shadow of the Hikawa Maru ship. This is one

of the choppy at to cease wins we have seen all season. You can see

the athletes jostling for position. We have two separate packs in the

water. 25 degrees outside, will water temperature

water. 25 degrees outside, will degrees, and they will exit the

water at the end of the first degrees, and they will exit the

750-metre lap and re-enter for lap two. Samuels of New Zealand is up

near the front and she's joined by Summer Cook from the USA. For so

many of the athletes from around the world, this is their last chance to

qualify. Some of the Olympic positions have already been

allocated but there are plenty more up for grabs in doubt. Some of them

will make it today, some will be left highly disappointed today. So,

approaching the first turn. 1.2 kilometres to swim. Keeping

reasonably well spread out here, and I some Cork who was first to

take the turn. Someone has got stuck on the inside of that buoy. Dreadful

buoy there. The swimmers haven't had time to separate out as we normally

see. We are back with what looks like Summer Cook from the USA. Three

world triathlon series starts so far, so pretty new to the sport. All

eyes will be on Gwen Jorgensen, never normally at the front

eyes will be on Gwen Jorgensen, field at the start of the triathlon.

The swim section can be a problem area for the American but she is

improving all the time, as we get a shot of her now. Gwen Jorgensen in

about seventh position roughly at this stage in the swim, as we panned

forward to the front of stage one. It will be a two lap swim. Then they

will pick up their bikes, ride 40 kilometres, stage three the ten

kilometre run will be four laps of 2.5 kilometres to round things off.

Out they come at the end of lap one. Summer Cook, leading them out. The

Brazilian is close behind. Plenty of interest for the Japanese supporters

here, we will keep an That is 40 athlete out within 20

seconds, just goes to show no damage has really been done in that first

750 metres. After about 11 minutes of the triathlon, they are on their

way for lap two. Summer Cook, just checking her direction. You will see

number 50 on her swim cap. She makes a couple of strokes, then pokes her

head out of the water. As the pathfinder here, she needs to make

sure she is taking the correct direction towards the turn, which

was pretty chaotic last time around. They have spread out a little

further so we will hope it is less dramatic. Pamella Oliveira, of

Brazil, coming out, but no Brit there today. They have decided to

sit out of this race. Now time to think about the final

sit out of this race. Now time to water. There are two distinct

groups. All of the water. There are two distinct

bidding for Olympic selection will be hoping to be in that first group.

If you are in the second group you have an awful lot of work to do, as

they pick up their bikes for the second stage. It is dry and pretty

mild here this afternoon. Summer Cook, the first out. Then Samuels

and Oliveira. Lots of competition within the Australian ranks for

selection, the only one who has been selected is Moffat. Lisa Norton has

moved up into the top 20 at the end of lap two. Quite a long run in on

the tarmac before it gets more comfortable on the blue carpet,

where the bikes are parked. Good numbers out there this afternoon,

five or six deep in places, looking out for the triathletes. Great swim

for Charlotte McShane of Australia, and she will definitely be going for

that spot on the Australian team. Gwen Jorgensen has arrived in

transition, a few seconds behind the leaders but she won't be concerned.

She has a chance to join in the fun. 40 kilometres now involving nine

loops around the streets of Yokohama. A huge group is likely to

form at the front of the bikes. One or two strugglers.

Hard work ahead now for Ai Ueda of Japan. Ashleigh Gentle on her way

Hard work ahead now for Ai Ueda of too, the Australian. She started the

race wearing number one, but the poor swim leaves her with lots of

work to do. Meanwhile, we will join the bike as they make the first out

and back turned. We are with the lead group here. Hopefully as the

race on falls we will get a check on some of the main contenders. -- as

the race unfolds. A chance to pick up some speed as they had out on the

main sections as they follow the waterfront as it makes its way round

some of the reclaim the land around Yokohama. Out towards the circular

bridge, out towards the theme park at Cosmo World with the giant Ferris

wheel. There is the circular bridge I just mentioned. We will see who is

who and who is where in this front group. They are on their way. It is

a very twisty Turney route. Michel, what a shame, heard a already over.

Yes, she has called today. We heard she had a stomach problem this

morning so we will assume it might be something to do with that.

Zaferes, making a decisive move, trying to bridge the gap. They need

to be careful, the cones don't give them too much margin for error. And

Moffat, pre-selected for the Australian Olympic team, making her

way up through the field. She will soon hook onto the back of the

leading group. It is going to be an interesting bike here because the

athletes need to work hard in this front pack, with a note Jenkins.

Duffy of Bermuda here racing today. Someone else will have to take on

the role of pushing the front pack if they are going to stay away from

the chasers. Approaching the end of lap one and we will get a check on

who is involved. Just 28 minutes has passed since they dived into the

water to Sarah-Anne Brault looking for a

chance to qualify for Olympic qualification.

23, 24, 25 and growing. Then a gap of a few seconds to the next little

group coming through transition. Ashleigh Gentle and Ai Ueda have

made a significant move during that first lap. They have closed the gap

and are clearly determined to get involved in the front group. Huge

front pack, 37 athletes in there and unless someone takes control and get

them working as a team the likes of Ashleigh Gentle and Ai Ueda are

going to have a good chance of joining them. Kirsten Kasper closest

to us, the American wearing number two. The chasing group 27 seconds

removed from the leaders. The leaders are forcing quite a decent

pace here at the head of proceedings in Yokohama. Number 19 Rebecca

Spence, powerful rider. No British interest in this race this afternoon

but Aileen Reid is in the field for Ireland. They are approaching the

end of the second lap after 34 minutes, just under 35 minutes of

triathlon under their belt. The end of the second lap, we'll get a look

at who is doing what and what the difference is between the leaders

and the chasers. Rebecca Spence out in front as she has been a couple of

times this season. Injecting as much pace as she can. Gwen Jorgensen in

that group. She has been dominant in Yokohama over the years, winning

here three times in the past. Likes the course and the fact that it's

flat and she will enjoy it today, the fact it is mild and drive. The

chasing group led by Ashleigh Gentle of Australia. With Ai Ueda just

behind her. Aileen Reid in green just going through, the Irish

triathletes, struggling to keep pace with the front of the chasing group

led by Ashleigh Gentle and Ai Ueda. Back with the leaders and still

Rebecca Spence dictating the pace of the race. This is a tricky course

because there's a lot of twists and turns and unless you are technically

very strong you are right hard into the corners and then you get the

effect everyone slows down and gets the chance, at the moment we are not

seeing many breakaways, good to see Charlotte McShane up there with

Rebecca Spence pushing on the front pack. Summer Cook at the back of the

leading pack, she did all her hard work during the swimming. The

chasers are closing, it was 27 seconds the last time we saw, it's

down to just 14 now. They have made a real dent. The chasers are coming.

Emma Moffatt latching onto the back of this little group. Australians

leading and sweeping with Ashleigh Gentle. Ai Ueda is a bit of a hero

in these parts. Gwen Jorgensen out of the saddle and pushing hard.

Unbelievable unbeaten run of hers came to an end the ninth of

Australia in Australia, the Gold Coast race going the way of Helen

Jenkins. Gwen Jorgensen apart from that defeat at the hands of Jenkins

has been the dominant athlete on the world triathlon series for the last

two years. She will go to Rio is one of the favourites to pick up the

gold medal. 25 kilometres still to ride. And the chasers are just four

or five seconds behind. It won't be long before this group led by

Ashleigh Gentle with Emma Moffatt at the back join the fun at the front

and that will give us a the back join the fun at the front

group of 42 riders in total. the back join the fun at the front

makes the second half of this course quite interesting so many different

agendas out there today. All the various connotations, the national

agendas out there today. All the federations and the Olympic

selection criteria to consider. They have all become one, the two groups

have converged, huge pack taking this tight turn around the

stationary car. Interesting to see if anyone in the pack decides to

attempt a breakaway because Gwen Jorgensen is in there and she is by

far the fastest runner in the pack. The only chance of beating her now

is to get a breakaway but that will be difficult on this course because

all the athletes that are racing. Normally we see Gwen Jorgensen

coming in, she can be a minute, minute and a half down sometimes and

ease her way up through the field. This is the new chasing group, eight

or nine, Santos of Portugal. They have work to do to try and join this

huge peloton at the front. Into the closing stages of the bike section

and still this huge group of 42 under the circular bridge again.

Perfect conditions for cycling the streets of Japan. 3.7 million

population. Still no trouble on the roads so far. Everyone has kept

themselves out of trouble, one or two getting close to the cones.

Jones of the United States has got too close for comfort and is having

to restart. Let's have another look. Jones went down, she took herself

down I think, braked too hard, the front wheel goes and it's all over.

She will have a tough day getting back.

She was shaking her right she was riding off, the American.

But back in the race. Coming towards transition for the second time, the

change from two wheels to the ten kilometre run to round things off.

Summer Cook starts to remove her feet from the pedals at the back of

the pack. Jones hasn't got too far feet from the pedals at the back of

removed, the American who crashed, that is good riding. In towards

transition for the second and final time. Gwen Jorgensen will be hoping

for a clean break and a clear view of the road ahead. Kirsten Kasper

leading the pack in, number two for the United States of America.

Outside chance of Olympic selection for Kirsten Kasper. Sarah Trew

Outside chance of Olympic selection within the American team for was oh.

One more Place available. Andrea Hewitt of New Zealand is officially

the first to dismount. Ai Ueda the best of the Japanese.

Good start from Ai Ueda, very fast transition and she is forced to

strike. Gwen Jorgensen never in a panic in transition, she knows she

has the running ability to close down the gap, and quickly. It's Ai

Ueda of Japan who strikes for the front of the field. First to leave

transition, giving the crowd is much to enjoy at the start of this 10,000

metre run. It motivates the athletes when they are on home soil and in

Japan triathlon is so big. Having all the support is making her run

out of her skin but she has a long way to go and has gone out pretty

fast with the likes of Gwen Jorgensen on her heels. At the

moment Ai Ueda of Japan is leading the race. She was the runner-up here

behind Gwen Jorgensen in 2014. Kirsten Kasper, Andrea Hewitt and

Erin Densham alongside with Renee Tomlin also of the United States of

America. Those athletes are slowly but surely reeling in Ai Ueda so it

won't be long before she has company at the front of the field. Gwen

Jorgensen starting to get involved as well. Ai Ueda seeking the shade

on the left. Gwen Jorgensen in about 10th position, then a bit of a gap.

It's going to be a tough running race for the likes of Erin Densham

because they are the top contenders for my liking of the Chilean team,

at the moment you can see her in second place -- the Australian team.

The tall figure of going your Gunson -- Gwen Jorgensen working her way up

towards Ai Ueda. Ai Ueda one of the oldest competitors in the field, 32

years of age from Kyoto in Japan. She's about to feel Gwen Jorgensen

breathing her neck. Whether she will go straight past Ai Ueda whether she

will stay with her for a moment remains to be seen. But no lack of

pace from Gwen Jorgensen, Ai Ueda would have expected to see her but

possibly not quite as quickly as that. The 30-year-old American leads

the 32-year-old Japanese. Just tucked in behind, Kristin Kaspar and

Tomlinson because they will be looking for the sport on the

American team. Seven world triathlon starts in 2015

for Gwen Jorgensen, recorded the fastest run split in all seven of

those races and she won all seven of those races as well. The first

to win the world triathlon grand final twice since it was introduced

in 2009. And the first American athlete male or female to defend the

world triathlon championship title. She's one of the all-time greats.

And the Olympics this year represent the one thing which is missing from

her CV. Striking the front in Japan and moving away from the rest of the

field. This is classic Gwen Jorgensen. I wonder how her head is

after being beaten by Helen Jenkins in the Gold Coast. Some thought her

confidence might have been knocked but it doesn't look like it here

today, she looks like she's back on the form we are used to seeing from

her. Fascinating women's Olympic

triathlon in prospect in Rio in August with Gwen Jorgensen the big

favourite, having been beaten by Helen Jenkins, Non Stanford

favourite, having been beaten by Vicky Holland also involved. Others

not sure of the place, but the men's race should be good as well,

Alistair Brownlee hoping to defend his title and Jonny Brownlee hoping

to get amongst the medals and maybe steel the gold medal from his older

brother this August in Brazil. Mouthwatering stuff. We can see the

gap growing between the chasing pack, she's pretty formidable when

she's on top form like this. The running technique just about as

close to perfect as you can get. These four triathletes bidding for a

central podium places. Ai Ueda, the little pocket rocket from Japan

taking a gulp of water to keep herself cool, digging deep into her

reserves of strength in an attempt to stick with her competitors.

Summer Cook had a very good swimmer and kept out of trouble on two

wheels and is now up into third position, having a good race here

today, Summer Cook. Often Gwen Jorgensen comes from 90

seconds down and has to do all of that hard work before she takes the

seconds down and has to do all of lead in these races. Today it has

taken her much less time than normal to become the dominant figure in the

race. She is looking for her fourth straight win in Yokohama. 11 seconds

the lead now for Gwen Jorgensen. That is certainly growing, she is

extending it stride by stride here. Gwen Jorgensen of the USA. Some

might think she would want to take her foot off the gas but she likes

to push on with the pace. She will be disappointed with her performance

in the Gold Coast and will want to know everyone she is back, and the

fastest runner at this moment. I make that gap more like 17, 18

seconds. Summer Cook, holding second for the USA. Ai Ueda, towered over

by the rest of the field. The veteran Japanese holding on to third

position. A bit of a scrap going on behind, Ashleigh Gentle. Lyndon,

perhaps the youngest person in this race. We can see that lead is

definitely growing, and it has got to be around 25 seconds by my

guessing. So, at the end of the first lap. It

didn't take long for Gwen Jorgensen to settle herself in at the front of

the field. One hour and 31 minutes have passed since the race began and

we will get an official time difference now between Gwen

Jorgensen, the best and the rest, who are battling for podium places

and Olympic selection. And Ai Ueda is still out near the front, and

that is giving the local supporters much to save on the second half of

this run. Sarah-Anne Brault of Canada will be hoping she can give

herself a chance of going to Rio in August. Jackson weighed down after

that great swim she had. Normally the run

that great swim she had. Normally today. -- way down. Gwen Jorgensen

all on her own at the front of the field, picks up a bottle of water

and uses it as a shower rather than drink. She is just stretching her

lead with every pace. Now the battle continues, it is all about the race

within the race. Gwen Jorgensen's victory, presuming she stays

upright, it is secured. There is a move afoot from Ashleigh Gentle, the

Australian has moved up from the third group to join in with this

group of seven or eight, the chase group now. So Ashleigh Gentle

fancies her chances of making a late bid for Olympic selection. 29

seconds now the gap, that is a bit more realistic, and still a fair

amount of running to go. I can see that gap growing to well over one

minute. Ashleigh Gentle now has taken second place in this race, she

has really worked her way up. She took it pretty steady in the first

couple of kilometres, she has found her pays now to put herself in

contention for that second spot on the Australian team. And the only

one who has gone with her, to stay with her at the moment, is Ai Ueda.

She could still be on for a podium place here for the host nation.

Ashleigh Gentle of Australia in second position with Ai Ueda on her

shoulder. Hewitt, the consistent New Zealander, once again up there in

amongst the best of the action. Charlotte MacShane hot on her heels,

she will also be eyeing a spot. She doesn't want to let Ashleigh Gentle

go too far ahead of her because she knows Jackson is behind her, and

Moffat has already qualified. Gwen Jorgensen has a lead of more than

one minute over the next best now. Gentle starting to assert herself in

second position. The 25-year-old Australian has one metre over Ai

Ueda, but Ai Ueda isn't broken just yet and we could seek a sprint

towards the line between second and third if it stays like this. Gwen

Jorgensen just cruising through the streets of Yokohama. Ai Ueda, taking

the inside line. She is streets of Yokohama. Ai Ueda, taking

not giving up, grimacing, the pain showing all over her face. Gentle

looking over her shoulder to see if she is in a clear spot. I think

those glasses certainly hide one or two emotions. The closing stages of

round four of the world triathlon series for 2016 and Ashleigh Gentle

kicks past Ai Ueda, whose face is a story of pain. Meanwhile out in

front, Gwen Jorgensen heads towards what will be her 16th world

triathlon series win and her fourth right here in Yokohama. A race

triathlon series win and her fourth in Australia by

triathlon series win and her fourth she has bounced back to let

everybody know that she is still going to be the one to watch in Rio.

It has been so comfortable from the very start for Gwen Jorgensen, and

as the crowd show the appreciation for her efforts here in Yokohama

this afternoon, the finishing straight, not worried about anybody

from behind, such is the extent of her lead. Not even bothering to slow

down and high-5 or take a flag. But now she raises her sunglasses and

lets out a smile and starts to acknowledge the support she has

received here. They are very knowledgeable triathlon crowd, they

know all about Gwen Jorgensen in Yokohama, as she wins in Yokohama

once again. Another stunning performance from the American, who

has got quite a wait now. Ai Ueda has struck back against Ashleigh

Gentle, she is desperate to take that second position but she looks

like she is running on empty. Gentle looks like she might have enough in

reserve to make a decisive kick on the final straight. As the

Australian shadows Ai Ueda in the final stretch, they will go shoulder

to shoulder. Gentle has got a kick, Ai Ueda unable to respond. She has

the measure of the Japanese veteran, and she will take runners-up spot

behind Gwen Jorgensen. She has shown her true courage and resilience, and

will certainly be going to Rio to represent Japan after that gutsy

performance. But it is second place to Ashleigh Gentle here this

afternoon. The Australian finishes one minute and a quarter behind Gwen

Jorgensen. Gentle takes second, Ai Ueda comes home for a courageous

third place. Meanwhile the sprint finishes continue. Charlotte

MacShane pushed down to fifth by Andrea Hewitt. Who has already

qualified for Rio, finishes in second -- Moffat. Another amazing

performance from Gwen Jorgensen, finishing in first ahead of Ashleigh

Gentle and Ai Ueda of Japan. It must be one of your favourite

places to race, four wins in a row here? I really like it in Japan, the

crowd is always cheering and it makes it really exciting. How

pleased were you with your swim because it was quite choppy and you

were within ten seconds off the lead coming out of the water. I would

have liked to have been nearer the front but it was quite choppy, it

was a hard swim. As far as your Olympic preparations go, it seems

like watching that is that you are pretty much where you want to be.

Yes, I have been working towards it for four years so I will just keep

working towards that. Were you concerned coming out of the water,

there was a gap between you and the leading group. I was disappointed

about that. It was really choppy, I have done so much better in the

pool. I have got to improve and there's no excuses but I worked hard

on the bike and really pushed the pace is the first few laps to get

back in the game again. Do you think you have sent a definitive statement

of the Australian Federation to say take me to Rio on this performance?

I think so, my silver last year in Abu Dhabi and this race should be a

really good case. I know I have lots to give and lots of improve on so I

hope they can see that and I'm determined to be in Rio so I hope I

can be there. How happy are you to have been on the podium again here?

I get on the podium again, very, very happy. This finish behind

Ashleigh Gentle, she is a very fast cyclist, a very good race. Keep

running, and cheering me. You have made the Japanese crowd very happy.

Yes, I am so happy. Flora Duffy of Bermuda and absentee still leads the

world triathlon standings, ahead of Jodie Stimpson, with Ashleigh Gentle

now in third, just ahead of Gwen Jorgensen.

That is it for our coverage from Yokohama. Next up for the World

Series, it is the new kid on the block and we are marching on

together towards leads leads -- Leeds. What a performance!

A stunning performance. We will be live in Leeds with all

the action on Sunday June 12. We have the men's and women's races in

full on BBC Two, and to whet your appetite between now and then, why

not watch The Brownlee 'S. Alistair and Johnny both come from Leeds, so

that next World Series event promises to be quite something.

Until then, goodbye.