The 32-year-old from Norfolk was a heavy favourite, having taken a 13 minute chunk out of the all-time Ironman distance record earlier this year.

Wellington’s time of 8 hours 54min 02sec pipped Ironman legend Paula Newby-Fraser’s course best 8:55.28 set back in 1992.

Wellington now remains undefeated at the Ironman distance in eight races.

She said "I'm so proud of what I achieved today.

"I never thought I’d come here and break Paula’s record.

"She's an absolute legend.

"I feel kind of guilty doing it.

"I hope I can continue to be the champion that you can all be proud of."

Wellington emerged from the 2.4 mile swim in eighth place having taken 54:31 but quickly assumed the lead on the 112 mile cycle ride and finished with an 11 minute lead.

She extended her winning margin at the end over Australia's Miranda Carfrae to nearly 20 minutes to claim the first prize of $110,000 (£69,400).

Wellington said: “This truly was the toughest day in sport.

"I am so honoured and proud to now hold the course record.

"I was determined to race with all the fire and passion inside me and I am delighted to be able to take home the title once again."
 

Heather Williams, the Director of Performance at British Triathlon, said: "Chrissie continues to get faster and faster, and to break new ironman ground.

"I congratulate her on another truly outstanding performance."
 
In the men’s event, 36-year-old Craig Alexander from Australia retained his title in 8:14:04.

Alexander said: "It's not everyone's cup of tea but I love this sport."

Alexander only took over the lead when American Chris Lieto suffered cramps in the last five miles of the marathon run.
 

He said: "You know it's funny.

"Last year I felt I was dictating the pace of the race and I felt comfortable the whole way through.

"This year I felt I had to fight and scrap.

"When it's a day like that you're hurting for so long, that although the pain is not going away, it's not getting any worse.

"You just have to stick with it."


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