2009 Ford Ironman World Championship

It was one for the record books in Kailua-Kona. Chrissie Wellington set a new women's course record while winning her third straight title, and Craig Alexander became only the fourth male to defend his Ironman crown.

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How They Won the 2009 Ford Ironman World Championship

Watch Chrissie Wellington discuss her record-breaking performance, and Craig Alexander and Chris Lieto recall their duel outside the Natural Energy Lab.

<strong>Chrissie Wellington celebrates her third straight Ironman World Championship.</strong><br /><br />Photo: Jesse Hammond/Active.com

Wellington Rewrites History, Alexander Comes From Behind to Win

A new course record and a third straight title to her name, Chrissie Wellington produced one of the most dominating performances ever in Kailua-Kona. Meanwhile, Craig Alexander defended his Ironman World Championship in typical fashion--overtaking his competition on the run.

<strong>Texan Desiree Ficker celebrates her second place finish at the 2006 Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii.</strong><br /><br />AP Photo/Jeff Chiu

How to Train for Your First Ironman

Do the scenes from Kona inspire you to push yourself beyond an Olympic-distance tri? Active Expert Gale Bernhardt explains what to expect when training for your first Ironman.

AP Photo/Jeff Chiu

You Finished an Ironman, Now What?

After going the distance, some athletes struggle to find direction in a life no longer consumed by training. Here's how to get back on your feet during those crucial post-race weeks.

<strong>Create a recovery plan for the days and weeks following an Ironman.</strong><br><br>Photo: Jesse Hammond/ Active.com

Bouncing Back From Ironman

Completing an Ironman has a profound effect on your physiology. Your training prepares you for the race, but what most athletes aren't prepared for are the aftereffects of an Ironman.

How fast an athlete recovers from an event depends on several factors before, during and after the race.

Determining Your Race Recovery Time

How long should it take to recover from a race? The answer varies. This guide will you understand when you can safely start again.

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