Johnsen wins first Ironman crown

Australia's Jimmy Johnsen executed a patient and measured race plan to claim his first Ironman crown at the SunSmart Ironman Western Australia 2012 on Sunday.

While it wasn’t Johnsen’s fastest time, posting 8.29.05, it was enough to win from Germany’s Horst Reichel and South Australia’s Matty White.

“It’s a nice feeling, I cannot complain,” Johnsen said.

“I know my second half of the marathon is always good and I took it pretty easy on the first half.”

In the women’s professional competition, New Zealander Britta Martin also came from behind to claim victory, overcoming a nearly eight-minute deficit after the swim and bike legs.

“It was hard, I was alright on the run in the heat but I had a horrible swim. It was pretty choppy and I went completely off course,” said Martin.

The petite Kiwi was completely overjoyed as she crossed the finish line.

“I really can’t find the words to describe what this means to me, I am just so happy,” she said.

“This is pretty major for me.

“I have had a pretty tough few years and I just really wanted the win today.”

Martin was followed by Australians Rebekah Keat and Rebecca Hoschke.