Jenkins was at the head of the pack following the swim, which she completed in 19 minutes 35 seconds, but was overhauled during the cycle phase.

Jenkins challenged during the run but was held off by Australia's Erin Densham. Jenkins completed the course in 2hrs 1min 38secs, nine seconds behind the winner.

Olympic hopeful Jenkins was far from disappointed with her start to the season though.

She said: "It's always a relief to get the first race out of the way. Normally it takes me a few races to warm up, so to come out and get a podium performance is brilliant.

Progressing

"My winter training has gone well, and ahead of the next race in San Diego I'll get another block of training in. I will try to keep progressing from this race, looking forward towards the Olympics.''

Of the other Britons competing, Non Stanford finished 11th, Liz Blatchford 18th and Vicky Holland 38th.

William Clarke was the top British finisher in the men's race, coming in eighth, 38 seconds behind winner Steffen Justus, of Germany, who clocked a time of 1:51.04.

Tim Don was 11th, a further 19 seconds back.