NARBERTH’S Celia Boothman has spoken to Telegraph Sport after returning from the World Ironman Champi- onships in Kona, Hawaii.

Competing in the 40-44 years category, she clocked 11:09:22, giving her a creditable 33rd place in her category, and second out of the UK athletes.

She was suffering from a cold when she first arrived on the island, but recovered in time for race morning.

“I was helped through body marking quickly,” she said.

“The organisation of the event was amazing, there was so many volunteers and everything ran very smoothly.

“Getting in the water was great, warm and clear, very different to Wales!

“I was happy to be starting but pretty intimidated by the whole day so I just tried to focus on one part at a time.

“The swim was crowded as there were a lot of people swimming at the same pace, so it was tough to find space.”

Celia swam the 2.4 miles in 1:08:36, and then it was onto the 112-mile cycle where she had early problems before clocking 6:03:02.

“The bike ride started with a loop around Kona town then out onto the Queen K highway - a long hot road!

“A few minutes in I braked too suddenly and came off my bike, grazing and bruising the right side of my body.

“A volunteer helped me up and I got back on. It was hot and with a strong headwind in places but also great fun.

“A few people came off in the wind, but I managed to stay on and when I got back to T2 I was sat down and a cool towel put over my shoulders. I didn’t think I could run.”

But after encouragement from her husband, a tearful Celia began the 26.2 mile marathon, which she went on to complete in 3:49:08.

“The hardest part was running out and back again along the Queen K where it was exposed, hot and lonely.

“I have never been so happy to see a finish line, such a tough day and amazing atmosphere. Thankyou to everyone who wished me well, your support got me round.”