ST. GEORGE, Utah - Athletes from around the world swam, biked and ran their way through southern Utah Saturday--all for the title of “Ironman.”
Competitors in the St. George Ironman 70.3 say it was the perfect day for a race. Close to 2,600 athletes joined top professionals in the North American Pro Championship. Tim Don from Great Britain finished first for the men, with an overall time of 3:51:56.
“You never know if you’re going to win until you cross the line, it’s so close out there,” said Don as after he crossed the finish line. “It’s my third race this year, my third win. I was third here last year, so to go two steps up on the podium, I’m very, very happy.”
Canadian native Heather Wurtele took the top spot for the professional women with a time of 4:17:58.
“I’ve come to St. George a bunch to train, and it sort of feels like a second home,” Wurtele said. “So it really means a lot.”
The St. George 70.3 always attracts lots of competitors. Despite having a reputation of being one of the most difficult courses, competitors say it's also one of the most beautiful.
“It definitely lives up to it,” Parker Mildenhall said. “My quads started to go from mile one on the run, and Snow Canyon was a beast.”
Regardless of who won, spectators said they love the event for the excitement it brings to the area, and the inspiring stories of triumph.
“All these that have trained all this time, and ran this marvelous distance,” says Salina resident Madge Mogle. "Can’t believe it. I can’t believe they can do it.”
Top three men professional results:
Tim Don of Great Britain at 3:51:56
Brent McMahon of Canada at 3:53:22
Andreas Raelert of Germany at 3:53:39
Top three women professional results:
Heather Wurtele of Canada at 4:17:58
Meredith Kessler of USA at 4:19:27
Jodie Swallow of Great Britain at 4:21:32
See all the times on the Ironman leader board by clicking here.
