SCARAB Tri's Mike Anthony completed the World Ironman Championships in Hawai'i on Saturday in 16:46.20.

The 66-year-old, who trains with the Wilmslow based club, qualified after winning the 65-70 age group of the Bolton Ironman in August.

"I had a bad start on the swim due to a misunderstanding from the marshals but I recovered ok," he said.

"The bike leg was hot, with very strong winds. One minute you was cycling 20mph then the wind hit you and you slowed down to 6mph. The cross winds were also blowing me all over the road.

"Halfway on the course the constant pressure of my cleats caused blisters on my feet and when I came into transition the pain was really bad.

"I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to continue, but you have to dig deep. I thought I would just take it one step at a time.

"I managed to complete the marathon, don't ask me how because at the finish when they put the medal round my neck I almost collapsed. Two marshals had to grab me.

"It wasn't due to fatigue, it was the pain in my feet, I just couldn't stand up anymore.

"I'm still struggling walking about and have been icing my feet! I'm going to have a rest for a while now, it was a long day."