Triathlon: Karyn's Ironman is in the Ballance

Triathlete Karyn Ballance has just won an Ironman title held 16 months ago but doesn't know if she'll be able to compete in one this week. Confused?

The 2002 Ironman New Zealand winner won a second title last week without raising a bead of sweat - after 2004 Western Australian 'winner' Rebecca Keat lost her final appeal against a positive drug test. Ballance finished second to the Australian and will now be elevated to winner.

That news has been tempered after a riding accident last week left 33-year-old Ballance with her arm in a cast. She is awaiting X-rays on Tuesday and the approval of organisers before she can confirm her place on the start line for the 22nd Bonita Ironman triathlon in Taupo this Saturday.

"I tried to avoid a car that pulled out on me and I fell," said Ballance, of Christchurch. "It doesn't seem too bad but the X-rays will tell. If it's OK then I will just need to see what I can wear for protection under the rules," Ballance said.

She is more excited that her 16-month ordeal after the Ironman Western Australia race is now over.

"I couldn't believe it when I saw it on the website. I was shaking. It is not so much that I am now being awarded the win but I think it is hugely significant that she has not been let off. So many athletes who have tested positive for nandralone have got off, so I am really pleased for the sport."

She is unfazed about her injury and is looking forward to the race in which she has played a leading part with four runner-up placings along with the 2002 victory.

Ballance's competitive career at this level may be nearing an end.

"I got told off by my husband for saying this is the end because you never say never," Ballance said of her husband Scott, the 1994 Ironman New Zealand champion. "I do want to do well next week and qualify for Hawaii again."

Next weekend's field is one of the most select for many years. There are eight Ironman winners, along with former world long distance duathlon champion Fiona Docherty. Three-time winner Joanna Lawn will defend her title with competition from world No 3 Kate Major, fellow Australians Rebecca Preston, Sarah Fien and Susan Peter, as well as Japan's Yoko Hori.

The men's race will see Kiwi Cameron Brown attempt to become the first person to win the same Ironman six times in a row. He faces ITU world champion Victor Zyemstev (Ukraine), who has won five Ironman races with lightning quick marathon runs.

Others to watch include Ain Juhansson (Estonia), Frenchman Gael Mainard and Kiwis Kieran Doe and Brent Foster.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY