Both Allan and Clark were involved in a leading group of 15 highly-strung cyclists on the initial 55km cycle stage between Kumara and Aickens, but it was Clark who put the bit between his teeth on the 33km mountain running stage, with only the Canterbury pair of Rhys John and Bobby Dean game enough to try and hold his relentless pace over the great divide.
Clark leading the Canterbury duo into Klondyke by 3min with Allan a further 6min back.
The defending champion is now at the business end of the world championship of multisport and it all on the line as he attempts to reel in the massive lead held by Clark. With a 15km bike to Mount White Bridge, followed by a 67km kayak, and 70km bike still to go.
First-timer and triathlon convert Alison Wilson, of Tauranga, survived a near death experience crossing the river in Deception Valley. The only casualty being her cap as she became submerged in strong rapids.
Despite this Wilson has still managed to open up a substantial lead over defending champion Emily Myer at the top of Goat Pass, with four-time champion Elina Ussher in third.
