Thursday, 18 March 2010 12:38
Crowie, Man of Iron
Winning the Ironman World Championships is one thing; winning it back to back is something so extraordinary that only a handful of athletes have managed to do it in the history of the sport. Australian Ironman pro Craig Alexander is one such man. Did we mention that he also won five Ironman 70.3 races this year?
Craig, a phenomenal year for you, but how many competitive seasons do you think you have left?
Our daughter is off to school next year and we had always said that we would try to settle in Australia when it was time for her to start school. But having had such good results in my racing over the last few years, I hope that I can race for a few more years. Maybe three, but we will always take it on a yearly basis.
You’ve just won the Ford Ironman World Championship for a second time. Was it harder than 2008?
It was definitely a hard race. Last year I felt like I had a little left in reserve if I needed it, whereas this year, even though I felt I was in better shape, it was definitely harder.
Have you achieved everything you set out to achieve?
The only thing I ever set out to achieve was to fulfil my potential. I’m not sure if you ever do that, but it’s fun trying to - and a challenge.
You like to surf and play golf and it’s clear that your family is extremely important to you. Are there any other things you like to do in your spare time when you are not competing around the world?
Hang out with the family, and if I get to paddle a ski with my wife, that’s awesome too.
You actually grew up playing soccer and only started competing in triathlons at the age of 21. What got you hooked on triathlon?
I was always interested in multi-sport events like triathlon and decathlon. I got hooked straight away after my first few races. I like the lifestyle of being healthy.
You have won the St. Croix triathlon many times. Is it your favourite race?
St. Croix would definitely be one of my favourites. We have great friends there, and both our daughter and son celebrate their birthdays that weekend. It is also a tough and challenging race. Obviously, I enjoy racing in Kona too!
You are a strong all-rounder but really, what is your strongest discipline at the moment?
I am a noted runner, but I am very strong mentally. I think you need to be strong in everything, and that is my focus each season; to build strength in all three.
Has entering Ironman South Africa ever crossed your mind?
Unfortunately it’s too early in the year for me. I usually take a break in Australia over November and December from training and that doesn’t allow me enough time to get ready for IM SA. I have heard great things about the race, but the timing is just wrong for the way my season works out.
Originally published in Go Multi issue 13.5 (January/February 2010)
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