Aussie Ironman winner to miss Perth race

Dual World Ironman champion Craig Alexander has listened to his head rather than
followed his heart, pulling out of Sunday's Long Distance Triathlon World
Championships in Perth.
Alexander became the first man in history to successfully defend his World Ironman
title when he took out the gruelling event in Hawaii two weeks ago.
The 36-year-old Australian had initially planned to back up and race in Perth but
reluctantly withdrew following advice from his team.
"All the people around me were saying I should rest and long term it's a smart
decision," Alexander said on Friday ahead of the 3km swim, 80km bike ride and 20km
run event.
"I mean even though physically now I feel recovered and could give a good account of
myself on Sunday I think down the track I would pay for it by beating up the immune
system too much.
"And to be honest I have too much respect for guys like Tim (O'Donnell) and Paul
(Matthews).
"This is their focus for the year.
"I've just raced my biggest race of the year ... it's just been non-stop travel and
media since then.
"I haven't even unpacked my bike yet.
"That's not the kind of mental preparation you want going into a race like this.
"It was hard to pull out though because rarely do you get a world championship on
home soil, so it was really tough.
"I was tempted to bring the bike but sanity prevailed."
It has been 13 years since an Australian took out the men's Long Distance World
Championship but Alexander was hopeful Matthews or Simon Thompson could break that
drought.
But they will have to overcome Frenchman Julien Loy, who has taken out the past two
titles.
In the women's, Australians Pip Taylor and Rebekah Keat are tipped to do well, as
are British pair Leanda Cave and Jodie Swallow.
While Alexander won't be competing in Perth, he is already eyeing off an
unprecedented third straight Ironman title.
"I was a late starter in the triathlon, I didn't start until my early 20s," he said.
"Initially I felt that was a disadvantage but now I think I'm still reaching my peak.
"I don't have a lot of wear and tear other guys my age have, I haven't had the
injuries they've had.
"I love the sport as much now as when I started, it's still my passion."