By James Reid

Triathlon star Lucy Byram was thrilled to cap her first T100 Triathlon World Tour season with a sixth-place finish at the Grand Final in Dubai.

The Yorkshire athlete produced the second-fastest bike leg of the race, behind only champion Taylor Knibb, to set the perfect platform for an impressive finish amidst oppressive heat in the UAE.

The result also ensured the 25-year-old finished sixth in the overall season standings, following further strong showings in Las Vegas and London.

That finish means Byram is assured a place on next season’s Tour, and the Holmfirth Harrier is determined to build on her success next season.

“It has been really fun,” she reflected. “It has not been the hardest course but the conditions make it really hard.

“The swim was what I found the hottest, so it was a case of trying not to go too hard which I think I did quite well.

“The bike and the run you can douse yourself in water so it’s not too bad. I am really happy with my result.

“We have been here for about two weeks, we came out to acclimatise to the weather. I am staying a few more days to explore.

“I have learned a lot. I can put myself up there with the top girls. We know each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

“I finished sixth in the series overall which means I have a contract next year which I am really happy about.”

Byram battled hard and finished just behind compatriot Kat Matthews, with both Brits just over five minutes behind eventual winner and overall champion Knibb.

Knibb was pushed all the way by Ashleigh Gentle, who eventually finished third behind Julie Derron, and Byram admitted the whole race was a thrilling event to be a part of.

“It was such a good race,” she added. “I could hear the commentators talking about the front of the race and I was quite intrigued about what was going on. There were loads of battles going on for contracts and the top three.”

Knibb claimed the inaugural T100 Triathlon World Championship title after eventually pulling clear about 3km from home in Dubai in a dominant performance.

It wrapped up an impressive season for the American, who won all four of the T100 races she entered and won Olympic silver in the mixed relay in Paris.

Knibb said: “I woke up and messaged my coach that I feel rough! I thought this was going to be a bad day so I was shocked.

“It only came together the last 3km when everyone else came apart. It was very step by step. It was brutal out there.

“I have a fantastic team of individuals and then a lot of sponsors. It is a huge team effort and I am really grateful for everyone who supports me and believes in me.”

The inaugural Dubai T100 Triathlon World Championship Final to crown the first ever T100 World Champions takes place on 16-17 November. The women's race is live and exclusive on Eurosport in the UK from 1315 on Saturday 16 November, with the race starting at 1330. Followed by the men's race on Sunday 17 November at the same times. Fans can also watch for free on PTO+