Joe Skipper turns on the GAS to take victory at Ironman UK 2021

‘It ain’t over until it’s over!’ Joe Skipper was in fine run form on Sunday as he stormed to victory with a speedy run at Ironman UK that took place in Bolton.

The British athlete who was some way back after the swim and bike produced an incredible 2:41:45 marathon time to glide past athletes on the run section.

French athlete Sam Laidlow also looks set to become the youngest pro athlete at age 22 to compete at the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii this year after taking second place. Having led for most of the race, the French athlete had been within touching distance of the win to add to his latest results, winning the Spanish Long Distance Championship 140.6Inn and taking 2nd place at the French Middle Distance Championship in Cagnes sur Mer.

Laidlow led from the start coming out of the water just ahead of three British athletes Adam Bowden, Elliot Smales and Tim Don.

Onto the bike Laidlow furthered his lead working alongside Tim Don for some of the bike. His French compatriot Leon Chevalier was moving through the field fast but was still loosing time to Laidlow over the course of the bike section. Joe Skipper was using his biking prowess to make some gains after coming out of swim some way behind.

In the end Laidlow had a comfortable lead going onto the run and looked set to take the tape. However, Skipper was coming in fast and in the final lap (10km) of the run leg Skipper was able to move into the lead and maintained his position until the finish with Laidlow having to settle for second and Leon Chevalier third.

You can view the full results HERE