Torsten Abel

Originally from Westallgaeu in the Bavarian Alps of Germany, Torsten Abel has proven his talent in the sport of triathlon at both the short and long distances. Early in his triathlon career Abel focused mainly on ITU style racing and qualified three times for the European National Championships. He was nominated to the German junior national team with the likes of Norman Stadler and Andreas Raelert where he honed his short course skills and traveled the world racing draft legal races. In 2005, after an 18 month break to continue his studies, Able came back to triathlon but changed his focus on long distance Ironman and half ironman events. He has since qualified for the Ironman World Championships three times and has just begun to hit his stride in 2009 with podium finishes at Ironman Arizona (3rd) and Ironman Switzerland (3rd). Torsten is now married to his long time girlfriend and also professional triathlete Leanda Cave.