A MALMESBURY ATHLETE has spoken of her pride as she scored her maiden  Ironman win. 

Lizzie Rayner, born and bred in Malmesbury, did her first triathlon at the age of 12 and during the pandemic decided to specialise in middle distance - known as 70.3 racing. 

The distances are a 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike and 13.1 mile run. 

Turning professional in 2022, she ended the year ranked 180th in the world, finished 2023 ranked 81st in the world and is currently ranked 57th in the world and 9th in the UK. 

Her previous podiums include 2nd in Challenge Wales 2023 and Belgium 2023 as well as third in Swansea earlier this year.  

Lizzie has spoken of her pride after recently winning the Ironman 70.3 Portugal in a time of 4:15:18 in a sprint finish. 

She said: "I previously raced the Portugal event in 2022 and loved it and was excited to return this year.  

"It’s an amazing event in a stunning location and the support from the crowds and volunteers is unbeatable.

"Getting my debut win here feels really special and on top of getting the win, I had my best performance ever with a 26:50 swim, 2:22:30 bike and 1:21:15 run.  

"I had so much fun in this race and really enjoyed it, something that has been missing this year!

"Racing with three friends in the age group field was really special as we raced at the same time so got to see them out on the course!

"My last race of the year is the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Taupo, New Zealand - my first professional world championship!

"I’m so proud of what I put together on the day, swim, bike and run.  

"The win was just a bonus.  

"The performance and how much I enjoyed it was a bigger win for me I think.

"I needed that after a few disappointing results this season."