ENDURANCE triathlete, Iain Hindes has qualified for the prestigious Ironman Hawaii Triathlon.

The North Devon triathlete stormed to eighth place in the Vet40 age group at the Florida Ironman event.

An outstanding display saw him break North Devon's club record, set by Martin Harrison in 2002, by more than 33 minutes.

He completed the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run in 9-39-27, realising a long-held ambition to qualify for Hawaii.

With 20,000 triathletes competing in 10 qualifying events around the world, Hindes' display in Florida secured one of the 1,500 places in Hawaii. Qualification came at the fourth attempt and was the result of many months' hard training.

He said: "I am feeling tired and happy to have finally put in a decent Ironman performance. And of course I'd like to thank my wonderful club-mates who've supported me all year."

Many of those followed his progress late into the night on the internet, seeing him clock 59-20 for the swim, 5-0-47 on the bike and 3-29-30 for the run.

Hindes is looking for sponsorship to take part in next year's Hawaii event. Anyone who would like to help can get in touch through the

Journal

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● North Devon Tri's Kristmas Kaper aquathlon will take place on December 6.