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Wragg Goes for 200

John Wragg, who holds the world record for the most Ironman finishes, aims to complete his 200th Ironman in Cozumel, Mexico on Sunday.

John Wragg and Elizabeth Model. Photo: Kevin Mackinnon
John Wragg and Elizabeth Model. Photo: Kevin Mackinnon

Wragg, one of only three individuals in history to complete a sanctioned Ironman competition on six continents, will participate in 17 Ironman events this year, solidifying his world record of finishing the most Ironman competitions.

“When I completed my very first Ironman in New Zealand in 1988, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven,” said Wragg, who turned 65 years old this year. “That year there were only five Ironman races and I completed all five. This year I’m doing 17.”

What makes this 200th milestone all the more impressive is that Wragg has continued to participate in Ironman competitions despite being hit by a car in 2008 and breaking his hip. As result of his injury, he now power-walks the marathon components with a titanium hip.

In 2008, Wragg completed his 100th Ironman in Malaysia along side his partner, Elizabeth Model. After the race, Model gave Wragg matching Ironman rings as a symbol of their passion for competition. The couple met at the 2006 Ironman in Arizona and have now crossed the finish line 14 times together.

“He is a remarkable inspiration for myself and thousands of others, and he is a true role model for competitors of all ages and abilities,” said Model. “His passion and commitment to competition is unparalleled, however he is equally passionate about the friendships that are developed through Ironman competitions around the world. For John, it’s about more than a competition, it’s about developing relationships and friendships that last a lifetime.”

Wragg, who is from the Greater Toronto Area, has swam 772.5 km (480 miles), biked 36049.3 km (22400 miles) and ran/power-walked 8433 km (5240 miles) over his 27-year Ironman career.

“I didn’t start competing with the goal in mind to complete this many Ironman competitions,” said Wragg. “However, the thrill of participating in these events and the friends I’ve met along the way have enriched my life. I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to be involved in such a remarkable sport.”

On November 29th, Wragg will be crossing his 200th finish line surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and the second largest barrier reef in the world in Cozumel, Mexico. Be sure to follow the updates online at www.ironman.com.

From a press release from Laura Ballance Media Group.