Wellington defends Ironman title

Norfolk's Chrissie Wellington battled back from a puncture to defend her World Ironman title in Hawaii.

Wellington came home in nine hours, six minutes and 23 seconds, ahead of Holland's Yvonne Van Vlerken in 9:21:20 and Germany's Sandra Wallenhorst.

"It didn't go exactly to plan," said victorious Wellington.

The 31-year-old, who grew up in Feltwell, has now won every international event that she has entered in 2008.

"That was the hardest thing I've ever done"
Chrissie Wellington

To claim glory Wellington had to complete a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile cycle and a 26.2-mile run.

Wellington had been leading the field before disaster struck and she suffered a flat tyre when her spoke punctured her wheel.

But with a little help from fellow competitor Bek Keat, Wellington managed to repair the damage and battle back to victory.

606: DEBATE
What do you think of Wellington's achievements?

"That was the hardest thing I've ever done," said Wellington.

Wellington's winning time last year was nine hours, eight minutes and 45 seconds.

In the men's race, Australian Craig Alexander took the title.

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
Chrissie Wellington
Ironman
British Triathlon
International Triathlon Union
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