Competitors swam in the open seas of the Singapore Strait and raced on the park's 12-kilometre (7.5 mi) track.

[2] U.S. triathlon coach Keith Dickson said the course favored strong swimmers and fast runners.

Athletes were faced with environmental challenges such as strong sea currents and tropical heat and humidity.

In the final stretch, Sato sped past Mexico's Adriana Barraza and Australia's Ellie Salthouse.

Canada's Christine Ridenour, who was one of the favourites to win a medal, was involved in a bicycle crash and finished 14th.