Wellington boots rivals aside to claim third world Ironman title

BRITISH triathlete Chrissie Wellington smashed the legendary course record as she defended her Ironman World title in Hawaii.

UNSTOPPABLE: Great Britain's Chrissie Wellington defended her Ironman World title to stay unbeaten over the demanding distance (Getty Images)

Wellington, 32, has never been beaten over the grueling distance, which sees competitors swim 2.4 miles, cycle 112 miles and then run a marathon.

Her time of eight hours, 54 minutes and two seconds was nearly 20 minutes quicker than nearest rival, Australia's Mirinda Carfrae.

And it erased the 17-year old previous course best, set by Zimbabwe's Paula Newby-Fraser - a legend of the sport who won the world Ironman title on eight occasions.

Near perfect windless conditions certainly aided Wellington, who claimed the ITU long distance World Championship in Holland last year and broke the Ironman world record at the Quelle Challenge Roth in July.

"To hold the course record here, it's such an honour," said a disbelieving Wellington.

"I never thought that Paula's record could be broken because she is an absolute legend of our sport.

"I feel a bit guilty about it but I'm so proud to win here again and get the record.

"I have to say a big mahalo (Hawaiian for thank you) to my family, friends and everyone here who has supported me."

Australia's Craig Alexander was the first to cross the line - the 36 year old defending his title in eight hours, 20 minutes and 21 seconds.