Joe Skipper and Alice Alberts Win at the 2023 Ironman Lake Placid
Joe Skipper and Alice Alberts triumph in the gruelling 226-kilometre IRONMAN Lake Placid Triathlon, demonstrating extraordinary endurance and determination
Ironman Lake Placid, a key event in the Ironman North America Series, concluded its 24th edition on Sunday in spectacular fashion across a grueling 140.6-mile course in New York's Adirondack Mountains. Briton Joe Skipper and American Alice Alberts emerged as the top male and female competitors respectively, dominating the field in an unforgettable day of racing.
Skipper clinched the overall win in an impressive time of 8:03:46, securing a lead through dominant performances in both the bike and run. Alice Alberts, in just her second year as a professional, captured her first ever Ironman victory with a time of 9:16:01, demonstrating exceptional strength and composure throughout the race.
In the men's professional race, Ben Hoffman (USA) and Matt Hanson (USA) trailed Skipper, finishing second and third with times of 8:06:06 and 8:09:51, respectively. While on the women's side, Erin Snelgrove (CAN) and Jen Annett (CAN) completed the podium with times of 9:21:49 and 9:27:35 respectively.
Skipper's victory came after a strategic takeover in the bike leg, where he pulled ahead of early leaders including Australia's Josh Amberger and 2022 champion Cody Beals. He further extended his lead in the marathon, rebuffing a mid-race surge from Hoffman.
Alberts showcased an incredible performance, quickly overtaking early swim leader Rach McBride on the bike leg. She expanded her lead during the run, fending off challenges from her rivals, including a strong late-stage run from Erin Snelgrove. Despite only taking up the sport professionally in 2021, Alberts displayed a maturity beyond her years, maintaining a consistent and comfortable lead to the end.