Briton Nikki Bartlett and Finland's Henrik Goesch secured victories at the Ironman Wales competition held in Tenby on Sunday, with Goesch claiming his maiden professional Ironman title and Bartlett capturing her second consecutive championship.
Goesch finished the men's event in eight hours, 31 minutes and 31 seconds, triumphing over his rivals despite challenging wet and windy weather across the West Wales course. Bartlett, who had previously won the women's professional category in 2022, completed the women's race in nine hours, 45 minutes and 37 seconds to secure back-to-back titles.
Why does Bartlett consider Tenby special?
Bartlett has developed a deep attachment to the Ironman Wales event and makes it her priority each season.
"I feel on top of the world," she said. "It's my favourite race. The pro calendar comes out in October or November, and I look straight to see if Ironman Wales has got a pro field. I make it my biggest race of the year and I love this place so much. The people, the spectators, the volunteers, everyone here makes Tenby so special."For Bartlett, the course represents the finest on the professional circuit, and the community atmosphere surrounding the event contributes significantly to her enthusiasm for returning year after year.
What does the Ironman Wales event involve?
The full Ironman competition comprises three demanding disciplines: a 2.4-mile open-water swim, a 112-mile cycling stage, and a 26.2-mile marathon run. Thousands of age-group competitors participated alongside the professional athletes, demonstrating the event's broad appeal across different ability levels.
How long has Tenby hosted this event?
The Welsh coastal town of Tenby marked its 14th consecutive year as host of the Ironman Wales championship, establishing itself as a significant fixture on the international triathlon calendar and a major event for the local community and economy.
