An 80-year-old Waterford man has completed one of the toughest endurance challenges in world sport, finishing the 2026 IRONMAN World Championship in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

Simon Butterworth, originally from Tramore, completed the gruelling 140.6-mile (226.3km) event, which brings together some of the world’s most committed triathletes.

The IRONMAN World Championship returned to its traditional single-day format in Kona this year, with men and women competing on the same day for the first time since 2019.

Competitors were tasked with completing three demanding disciplines back-to-back, beginning with a 2.4-mile (3.8km) swim, followed by a 112-mile (180km) cycle and finishing with a full 26.2-mile (42.2km) marathon.

The event is regarded as one of the ultimate tests of physical endurance, requiring athletes to complete all three disciplines without a break.

For Butterworth, completing the challenge at the age of 80 represents a remarkable sporting achievement.

The Tramore native’s finish on one of triathlon’s biggest stages is an extraordinary example of endurance, determination and longevity in sport.