Triathlon: Bevan Docherty gets Olympics spot

Taupo's Bevan Docherty has been named in the New Zealand triathlon team for the London Olympic Games.

The team was announced in Auckland yesterday, with double Olympic medallist Docherty being joined by Andrea Hewitt (Christchurch), Kate McIlroy (Wellington), Nicky Samuels (Wanaka), Kris Gemmell (Palmerston North) and Ryan Sissons (Auckland).

Samuels and Sissons may have a slightly nervous wait, however, as New Zealand must finish inside the top eight nations on the ITU Olympic rankings at the end of May for New Zealand to have three spots in either men's or women's races in London. In both cases New Zealand is comfortably inside the top eight and has plans to contest key races in May to ensure they stay there.

Triathlon New Zealand also confirmed that Debbie Tanner (Auckland) and Clark Ellice (New Plymouth) have been named as reserves in the event of injury or illness in the lead up to London. Both would need ratification from the NZOC should they be called upon to race.

Convenor of selectors Damian Pedreschi spoke of the quality of the athletes that have come through the selection process.

"The Triathlon New Zealand selectors, Lynley Brown, Barry Larsen and I are very pleased that the selection process has delivered a formidable team of talented athletes to represent New Zealand at the London Olympic Games.

"Andrea, Kate, Nicky, Kris, Bevan and Ryan are superb athletes and wonderful ambassadors for the sport and the country. They have come through a comprehensive selection process and are deserving of their places on the start line in London."

Triathlon New Zealand CEO Craig Waugh says it was a big day for the sport. "The Olympic Games is the pinnacle event for our sport and I must commend the selectors for the great job they have done in choosing this team, the athletes and coaches have been working towards this for most if not all of their careers."