Both German Michael Raelert and Australian Mirinda Carfrae made it look easy.
The two won the 2010 Rohto Ironman 70.3 California with minutes to spare.
Raelert, the current 70.3 World Champion, continued his domination of the half Ironman distance by winning the race after jumping into the lead on the bike.
"I hope a made a name of myself on the bike today," said Raelert. "A lot of people thought I was a one-day wonder. I was happy that I was able to prove myself, really happy to get the respect."
On the women's side of the race Carfrae ran away from the competition and cruised to an easily win the title in a time of 4:20:29
"I'm elated to have a win in the first race of the season," Carfrae said. "I was a little nervous before the start. My last race was five months ago in Kona. I placed second there (at the Ironman World Championship), and after such a high from that race, I was pleased that it's all still there."
Over 2200 hundred amatuer and professional athletes competed in the race.
Click HERE for complete amatuer and professional results.
Top five men:
1. Michael Raelert (GER) 3:58:27
2. Matt Reed (USA) 4:01:17
3. Rasmus Henning (DEN) 4:02:07
4. Richie Cunningham (AUS) 4:03:02
5. Timothy O’Donnell (USA) 4:03:21
Top five women:
1. Mirinda Carfrae (AUS) 4:20:29
2. Lesley Paterson (GBR) 4:24:31
3. Samantha McGlone (CAN) 4:26:43
4. Leanda Cave (GBR) 4:29:56
5. Kate Major (AUS) 4:30:15
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Photo by Bill Wechter North County Times
