Tomas Rodriguez Hernandez Stuns Patrick Lange to Claim Victory at Ironman Texas 2024
Mexico's Tomas Rodriguez claimed his first Ironman victory, overcoming a 12:45 deficit on the run to defeat Patrick Lange.
In a stunning upset, Tomas Rodriguez Hernandez of Mexico secured his first full-distance Ironman victory at the Ironman North American Championship in Texas. Rodriguez beat two-time Ironman World Champion Patrick Lange and broke the run course record in the process. Clement Mignon of France rounded out the podium in third place.
The race featured a strong field of competitors, including Lange, who was looking to bounce back after a disappointing 16th place finish at Ironman 70.3 Oceanside. The weather conditions in Texas were challenging, with high temperatures and humidity testing the athletes' endurance.
How the Race Was Won
Swim
Dutch professional Menno Koolhaas led the swim, with a front pack of five, including American Matthew Marquardt, opening up a small gap. Rodriguez exited the water alongside top contenders Braden Currie and Patrick Lange.
Bike
Marquardt showcased his power on the bike, opening up a significant lead over the chase pack. At the 100km mark, Sweden's Robert Kallin reeled in Marquardt, and the duo extended their buffer. Rodriguez found himself more than ten minutes behind the leaders coming into T2.
Run
Despite starting the run with a 12:45 deficit, Rodriguez steadily gained ground on the leaders. By the 27km mark, he had erased Marquardt's lead and made the pass. Rodriguez's pace was even faster than Lange's, who is widely regarded as the best runner in the sport. Although Lange closed the gap to within 90 seconds in the final stages, Rodriguez held on for the victory.
Post-Race
Rodriguez's win marks his first full-distance title and showcases his ability to overcome adversity, having finished 45th at Ironman 70.3 Oceanside just three weeks prior. Lange's second-place finish moves him into the top spot in the Ironman Pro Series standings.
Tomas Rodriguez Hernandez's remarkable performance at Ironman Texas 2024 will go down as one of the most impressive comebacks in the sport's history.
Ironman Texas – North American Championship 2024 Results
- Tomas Rodriguez Hernandez (MEX) – 7:42:38
- Patrick Lange (GER) – 7:44:14
- Clement Mignon (FRA) – 7:48:37
- Matthew Marquardt (USA) – 7:49:10
