Max Neumann put together an astonishing performance to take the repeat win at Ironman Cairns and to crown himself Asia-Pacific Champion for the second year in a row. Racing from the front all day long in impressive fashion, the BMC triathlete finished in a spectacular winning time of 7:58:55. Fellow countryman Tim Van Berkel claimed second in 8:06:39 with Josh Amberger finishing third (8:10:12).
Outstanding performance
Max started the day with an excellent swim, clocking the second fastest swim time of the day, 24 seconds behind leader Josh Amberger. On the bike Neumann settled immediately in his own rhythm and kept the gap to the front of the race under control. After 45K, the BMC athlete made the connection with Amberger and joined at the front of the race. At that point in the race a big chase group with all other favourites was following 4 minutes further back.
Together with Amberger, Max stayed at the front of the race for the rest of the bike and the two Aussies entered T2 together. Their lead to the first chasers had extended to 5'40 at the start of the closing marathon. Immediately during the opening stages of the run, and without any hesitation Neumann opened up a gap to Amberger. From than onwards Max continued to extend his lead km by km. At no point during the marathon his lead was in danger. After a phenomenal marathon in 2:43:57 an emotional Neumann cruised to the finish line to reclaim his title. With the second fastest swim split, the fastest bike time and the fastest marathon time of the day, the BMC athlete put together an absolutely outstanding and complete performance to take a very well deserved win in Cairns.
