Jordan Rapp had something to prove to himself and he did.
The 2009 Subaru Ironman Canada champion took back his title from defending champion Viktor Zyemstev when he crossed the finish line in 8:28:09, 13 minutes ahead of Torsten Abel of Germany. Following Torsten was Belgian’s Bert Jammaer in 8:42:34.
As Rapp reached the finish line, he grabbed the ribbon with authority and raised it above his head.
“It’s good to sort of feel like after everything that happened (his accident that kept him out of last year’s race), I can still win big races and win them convincingly,” he said, his body shaking from the long journey. “I think that was more than anything what I really wanted to prove. I think I did.”
Mary Ellis of Superior, Col., set a new women’s record winning in 9:03:13 and was ninth overall.
For full coverage with photos, check the Penticton Western News’ Wednesday issue.