Ironman Wales 2016 can be summed up in one word - electric! says Saundersfoot’s Daryl John.

“The atmosphere from the start to the finish was amazing,” he reflects.

“Just before I entered the water, I spotted my family and a quick hug from my girls was the perfect way to prepare for the plunge! This was my fourth Ironman Wales and the best sea conditions I have experienced in this race, so I was pleased to get a PB on the first leg.

“The bike course support was brilliant! Friends and ex-students from Pembroke, my old football team mates in Carew and cycling through my home village of Saundersfoot were memorable moments, that helped and pushed me to my second PB of the day!

“The noise generated on the run leg was phenomenal! There was so much support from friends and family watching the race and also fellow Ironman athletes. The crowds can make you smile in dark moments and keep you moving forward, for which I am most grateful.

“I am delighted with my new PB of 10 hours, 37 minutes and can attribute many of those minutes to the amazing support I received throughout the day! I’d like to thank most of all my lovely wife Meinir, my mother-in-law Gwenda and my daughters, Hannah, Grace and Dulcie for supporting me every step of the way with such enthusiasm and energy!

“I am proud to call myself a local athlete, competing in the best, most challenging race in the country.”