Mirinda Carfrae defends Hawaii ironman triathlon world crown on day of heat, wind and pain

AUSTRALIAN Mirinda Carfrae has become only the fourth woman to win three or more Hawaii ironman world crowns as she staged a stunning comeback on a day of heat and pain at Kona.

Carfrae wins Hawaii ironman

AUSTRALIAN Mirinda Carfrae has become only the fourth woman to win three or more Hawaii ironman world crowns, with a stunning comeback late in the race securing her the crown on a day of heat and pain at Kona.

Carfrae produced one of the most memorable comebacks in recent years when she came from more than 14 minutes down in the bike leg to claim first place in the race involving a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km run.

“I can’t believe it. I am stunned,’’ Carfrae told The Daily Telegraph after the race.

“Defending this title was the hardest thing I have ever done. I am so emotional. It was just so tough.’’

Carfrae said she was honoured to join the likes of legend Paul Newby-Fraser in winning three or more world crowns in Hawaii.

“To have my name alongside people like Paul, like Chrissie Wellington, Natasha Badman, I am just honoured.’’

German Sebastian Kienle won the men’s race with Tim Berkel the best placed Australian man in seventh place.