Nopesport

The British girls couldn't quite match the high standards Jamie set earlier, while Simone was the clear winner in the womens sprint, as the first female medals of this years World Cup were decided in Tartu, Estonia this afternoon.

Sarah Rollins was the top Brit, finishing in a good 18th place, whil Jenny Whitehead and Rachael Elder were very close a bit further back, in 37 and 39th place, while Helen Bridle finished in 44th.

Pippa Whitehouse was only 7 seconds away from qualifying, while Claire Ward did not start.

Simone Niggli proved yet again that she is the one to beat, with a convincing 37 second victory over the 13 minute course: nearly 5% faster than her nearest rival, who was Marianne Andersen of Norway, who last weekend successfully held off Niggli to anchor Nydalen to their first TioMila victory. Minna Kauppi of Finland took bronze.

1. Simone Niggli, SUI, 12:35
2. Marianne Andersen, NOR, 13:12
3. Minna Kauppi, FIN, 13:14
--
18. Sarah Rollins, 14:07
37. Jenny Whitehead, 14:47
39. Rachael Elder, 15:06
44. Helen Bridle,15:26

A note to any girls who are reading this on return from the FCC final, and hoping for JWOC selection: If you get to Lithuania in July you are going to be up against Ingunn Weltzien of Norway, who finished 5th today!

Middle distance qualification tomorrow.

EOC 2006