Scott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship) Share this | Hansard source

I just rise to celebrate Craig Alexander's victory at the recent World Ironman championships in Kona, Hawaii, where he smashed the 15-year-old course record after a gruelling swim and 180 kilometres on a bike, topped off by a 42-kilometre run. Craig has become the first Australian and only the fourth man to win the race three times. At 38 he is also the oldest man to take out the title. After fighting off cramps, Craig crossed the line in just eight hours, three minutes and 56 seconds, a new record and arguably the greatest performance in Australian triathlon history. Craig is a lifetime member of the Cronulla Triathlon Club and has lived in the shire for more than 15 years. On Sunday his wife and manager, Nerida, and his kids, Lucy and Austin, were there to share his victory. In 2008, when he crossed the finishing line, Craig was literally bowled over by his four-year-old daughter.

Once asked about the secret to his motivation and success, Craig answered, 'I just try to become better at swimming, biking and running every year.' Friends and rivals agree Craig's work ethic is unparalleled and he is as humble, modest and down-to-earth as they come. Six-time world champion Dave Scott called him 'the first true men's champion the sport has seen in years'. It is only fitting that we recognise his perseverance, achievements, character and great sportsmanship in this place. Congratulations, Craig. You are a great Australian and a credit to the shire.

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