Sebastian Kienle: “I’m not in bad shape for Bahrain”

“This is bigger than Kona and everyone sitting up here today will treat this as their A-game. And if I’m more recovered or not, that’s definitely [my] game plan [to go out and win].

And what of Pete Jacobs, 2012 Kona champion? “I’m well rested coming into this event but I think this course really suits people who are a bit rested because the bike’s flat, there’s a big tailwind and if you can survive through the bike then anything can happen with fresh legs, you never know.

“I’ll be really happy with a top ten, it is going to be a race like I’ve never been with such a talented field, it’s great to be a part of the race,” added Jacobs. “So not great shape, but still pretty optimistic that things could go alright.”

Whereas fellow reigning world Ironman champ Mirinda Carfrae had already declared her lack of fitness and played down her chances for victory on Saturday, Sebastian Kienle was not sharing what could be construed as a defeatist attitude.

“I don’t know if I’m in shape to be a factor but I will definitely give my best. And we’ll figure it out on the course. I’ve done a lot of races where I’ve not been able to do a lot of prep and then I’ve had a really good race. I think we’ll see on Saturday but I’m not in bad shape.”

But with a field as strong as this, who does he think will be his biggest rivals come race day? 

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“I’m not as diplomatic as Dirk [who swerved the question as to who would be a factor in the race]. For sure, Tim Don because he has the legs for putting in one of the best run splits. And of course Michael [Raelert], as he’s very hungry for success. So those are my two favourites.”