TAUNTON triathlete Luke Goldsworthy recently competed at the Ironman World Championships in Nice, France having the opportunity to race against the best in the world.

The challenge included a 2.4mile swim, 112 mile bike and 26.2mile run through the Cote d Azur.  

Goldsworthy only recently turned his attention to the sport after a long period as a marathon runner.

Training out of Combe Florey, in Taunton, Goldsworthy took part in the Ironman Switzerland in July.

It was there that he managed to finish in the top ten and qualify for the Ironman World Champs held annually, usually in Hawaii, but this year in France.

Speaking on the experience, Goldswortyh said: "The World Champs Course was as beautiful as it was brutal.

"The clear, calm swim in the Mediterranean was the perfect start, the view was stunning as the sun rose above the calm waters, I was just hoping the rest of the day was this enjoyable.

"The swim was followed by a mountainous Tour de France style bike course, which tested both climbing and descending skills, I was a long hot day in the saddle, but I managed to keep on top of pace and nutrition to make sure I started the run with some energy left.

"The marathon at the end was the real sting in the tail, 4 laps along the promenade in the baking heat, with no sign of shade, I truly had to dig deep, finding the mental reserves to keep on running."

Goldsworthy finished the course getting to the finish in 9hours 47 minutes, finishing 76th/2500 overall and the 9th GB athlete.

He added: "The crowds were incredible, and I am especially grateful for the support from my family who joined me in Nice.

"Now time to put my feet up for a couple weeks before finishing off the year with some half marathons."

Earlier this year, Luke and his brother Thomas, took on the London Marathon last week and both set marathon personal bests.

The pair were in top form during the race, and for Luke, it was his second London marathon.

He said: "It was an amazing weekend, made even more special with my family coming to watch, and being joined on the start line by my brother, who had entered for the first time.

"This year I managed to start in wave 1, having qualified for the event from the previous year giving me the opportunity for a quick start away from the crowds and fancy dress, hopefully giving me shot at setting a new PB."