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Eneko Llanos, 42 years of age, wins Ironman Vitoria-Gasteiz

Hometown favourite wins Ironman Vitoria-Gasteiz, and American Heather Jackson takes her third win of 2019

Vitoria-Gasteiz – the capital of the Basque Country – is world-renowned for its wineries and race atmosphere. Originally called “Triathlon Vitoria-Gasteiz,” in 2019, the first Ironman-branded edition of the race took place on July 14th.

In its first year (Ironman Vitoria-Gasteiz), hometown favourite Eneko Llanos won in a time of 7:55:16. The Spaniard, who is now 42 years old, appears to not be slowing down anytime soon. Llanos finished 11 minutes ahead of Josh Amberger, and 13 minutes ahead of Peru Alfaro.

Men’s Podium. Photo: Ironman Blog – Volker Boch

Despite Llanos’ age, he continues to compete at the highest level in long-course triathlon. Prior to his long course career, Llanos competed for Spain at the Summer Olympics in Sydney (2000) and Athens (2004). Following Athens, the Spaniard transitioned to Ironman racing, and in 2008, he finished second to Craig Alexander at the Ironman World Championship.

Eneko Llanos. Photo: Ironman Blog – Volker Boch

In the women’s race, American Heather Jackson took the win, 13 minutes ahead of Nina Derron and 21 minutes ahead of Judith Corachan. So far in 2019, Jackson has been showing great form. Earlier in the year, she won Ironman 70.3 Chattanooga and then followed it up with a second-place finish at the Herbalife24 Triathlon Los Angeles (Olympic-distance). Prior to Ironman Vitoria-Gasteiz, Jackson won Ironman 70.3 Coeur d’Alene – 1:40 ahead of Mirinda Carfrae.

Related: Five reasons why a hockey player should give triathlons a try

Heather Jackson. Photo: Ironman Blog – Volker Boch