Brownlee delight after claiming European Triathlon title

GREAT Britain's Alistair Brownlee produced a stunning performance to capture the European Triathlon gold - one of the few major titles missing from his collection - in Athlone, Ireland.

RELIEF: Alistair Brownlee won the European title - one of the few major titles missing from his collection (onEdition)

The race was delayed by a half an hour due to slates coming off the roof of Athlone Castle, which also meant an alteration to the bike and run course.

Brownlee, who last month won the World Championship Series race in Madrid to mark his comeback from injury, worked hard alongside younger brother Jonathan to overhaul the early lead of defending champion, Spain's Javier Gomez.

He even had time to celebrate as he came down the finishing straight, crossing the line in one hour 44 minutes and 24 seconds, 20 seconds ahead of Gomez while France's David Hauss completed the podium.

"I didn't win last year and I can't win the world title this year, so this was really important to me and I'm delighted," said Brownlee.

"We had a big Great Britain team and Johnny and I worked fantastically well together. 

"When I was injured earlier this year, this was what I was aiming for. I think that is the biggest number of high fives I have ever done coming into the finishing straight."

Britain's head coach Joel Filliol praised Brownlee's performance - with the World Championship Series in London the next target on the horizon. 

"Being European Champion was a significant milestone for Alistair and it was our highlight of the weekend," said Filliol.

"He did it the hard way and showed he can ride at the front to win.  I think he hurt Gomez on the bike and maybe that's what made the difference on the run."