Jordan Rapp ended his season in fine form, winning the popular Soma Triathlon in the heart of America's Canyon Southwest.


Rapp, having conquered triathlon's first four events — swim, bike run and nutrition — finally nailed the fifth and, for him, most elusive event, course navigation. The talented second-year pro fought off urges to veer his bike from the highway onto private drives, dirt trails, and roads less traveled, staying the course and prevailing in 96-degree heat to win in 4:01:46.


Young Mr. Rapp's resuscitated sense of direction, risen from the ashes like a Phoenix, appropriate took place in Phoenix (actually Tempe). Exiting the swim in third, he posted the fastest bike (2:08:43) and run (1:22:03) splits of the day. Second and third were Karol Kristov (4:10:41) and Andrew Hodges (4:12:08).


Katie Ellis, out of the 20-24 age group, sped to the fastest women's time with a fine 4:32:26. Talented Donna Phelan, returning to the race course after three consecutive years of career-threatening injuries, was next home in 4:39:07.