South African James Cunnama Makes it to Top 5 in World Ironman Championship

Congratulations to South African pro triathlete James Cunnama who came fifth in the 2017 World Ironman Championship – held in Kona, Hawaii – on Saturday 14 October 2017.

It’s been a big build-up to the World Champs… with James focussed not only on training, but visualising the race too.

In an interview published on Ironman’s website, the 34-year-old said: “Pretty much 24-hours a day, all aspects of life are geared around the race in October, from the time I wake up and what I have for breakfast, to what I have for dinner and what time I go to bed. It is all-consuming,” he says. “You’re always working on that, from getting out the door, to getting through hard sessions. It all builds up the resilience.”

He stressed the importance of visualization, saying: “being able to see yourself do the event beforehand is vital.”

It’s all paid off with an excellent result on the Big Island! James completed the race in 08:11:24, just four places behind winner Patrick Lange from Germany.

It’s been an awesome year for James Cunnama who won at the inaugural Ironman Hamburg, as well as at Ironman 70.3 Weymouth and Ironman 70.3 Lanzorate.

James, who lives in Stellenbosch, said on Instagram: “Top 5 in the world. Big thank you to everyone who helped make this happen, especially @trisutto. Back where we belong.  Onwards and upwards.”

His wife Jodie (British Ironman champ), who is expecting their first child, said: “He’s coming home:) ???? 5th in the world of IM but always the champion of my world…”

Congratulations to all the South Africans who competed in 2017 Ironman World Championship, triathlon’s ultimate iconic event, and thanks for waving the SA flag so high!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BaR3yTcg9iI/?taken-by=jamescunnama

https://www.instagram.com/p/BaTQXnAAr5D/?taken-by=trisutto