History beckons for Alexander in Ironman

History beckons for Australian triathlon star Craig Alexander, but reaching his
potential is more the motivation at the Hawaiian Ironman.
Most of the focus will be on Alexander and British phenomenon Chrissie Wellington
when they try to add to their winning streaks this Sunday (AEST) at the sport's most
famous race.
Last year, the man nicknamed `Crowie' became only the fourth man in the 32-year
history of the iconic race to successfully defend his title.
Wellington has won the last three editions and has been even more dominant.
If he triumphs again this weekend, Alexander would join triathlon immortals,
Americans Dave Scott and Mark Allen, as the only men to win three-straight Hawaiian
titles.
But the scary prospect for Alexander's rivals is the 37-year-old feels he is still
to reach his potential at the 3.8km swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km run event.
"I think about it, yeah, I think about the fact that it's only been done twice
before - the two guys are iconic figures in our sport," Alexander told AAP.
"But my motivation was never to re-write the record books, I just really want to
fulfil my potential.
"A great thing to have as an athlete is a short memory, whether you've raced well or
poorly in the past, I'm not resting on my laurels.
"While I've won the last two years, I certainly think I can improve and I haven't
peaked at this race, that's my motivation."
Canadian Peter Reid is the other man to win three Hawaiian titles, but his were
spread over six years.
Scott won six titles from 1980-87 and Allen did the same from 1989-95.
Since the Scott-Allen era ended, several men have looked capable of establishing
another dynasty, but the much deeper pool of talent and the pressure of staying at
the top have taken their toll.
While Alexander's success has raised his profile dramatically, he has arranged his
schedule carefully this week to ensure he is right for race day.
Hawaii is notorious for its brutal conditions, with the searing heat and winds on
the lava fields.
Alexander is well-aware that on race day, his lofty reputation will mean nothing.
He recalls a quote: "this island doesn't know names and doesn't play favourites.
"I consider myself an underdog in that I have to prove myself every single time I
step out on the race course," he said.
"There's always pressure (but) at what point do you let it all go and let
performance speak for itself - that's what I'm all about this year."
Alexander also remembers a valuable conversation with American Tim De Boom, the last
man to win two-straight in 2001-02.
"One thing he regrets is, while he was the world champion, he didn't enjoy it as
much as he could have," he said.
"I didn't want to have that regret - I wanted the crown to be uplifting rather than
a burden and that's how it's felt.
"While it's been hard, definitely, there are time management issues, certainly it's
a position I'd rather be in.
"I don't feel any added pressure this week, if anything, I probably felt more
pressure last year, it's such a hard thing to repeat.
"I feel like I'm playing with house money now."