Canada's Paula Findlay.Kerstin Joensson
Paula Findlay narrowly missed the podium at the opening World Cup event of the triathlon season.
The Edmonton native placed fourth Sunday after battling through strong winds and heavy rain. She completed the 1.5-kilometre swim, 40-kilometre bike ride and 10-kilometre run in two hours four minutes seven seconds.
"It was a really tough race all around today," said Findlay. "The course is challenging enough and the conditions made it that much more difficult. I'm happy with my race, but not completely satisfied.
"Finishing fourth is always bittersweet."
New Zealand's Nicky Samuels won the race in 2:03:13, finishing ahead of Australian Emma Moffatt and Chilean Barbara Riveros.
The 21-year-old Findlay made history last year by becoming the first Canadian athlete to win a world championship series event. She was also the only woman to win back-to-back events in 2010.
On Sunday, Vancouver's Lauren Campbell - formerly Groves - had a solid outing in her comeback to the elite triathlon circuit. She finished ninth in 2:04:58 after missing all of last year with an injury.
"This was an important race to assess my race skill and fitness level and determine what still needs attention," said Campbell. "I am looking forward to the months ahead."
Montreal's Kathy Tremblay was 15th while Calgary's Kyla Coates was 26th. Victoria's Kirsten Sweetland did not finish.