Double amputee Billy Monger smashes Ironman record by more than TWO HOURS seven years after horror crash
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Former British racing driver Billy Monger has become the fastest double amputee to complete the Ironman World Championship course in Hawaii.
Monger, who had both his legs amputated after a near-fatal crash in 2017, began training for the event over a year ago and set his sights on the previous record for a double leg amputee.
And he ended up smashing that previous record by two hours, three minutes and three seconds in a time of 14 hours 23 minutes 56 seconds.
Monger raised his fists and let out a huge roar as he crossed the finish line and revealed on social media he had to contend with several setbacks in the 140.6-mile race.
Billy Monger completed the Ironman race in 14 hours 23 minutes 56 seconds
GETTY
He said: "What a day! That was the longest day of my life – I just felt so much love out on the course; that was a really special day.
"All that hard work finally paid off and it couldn’t have gone better, everything came together in a really good way.
"There were a few moments – getting stung by jellyfish and getting a cut on my run socket but all things considered, issues we could have had, I am absolutely chuffed.
"It was a race I couldn’t have dreamed of. My support team as always are absolutely amazing and so big thanks to them and of course the public’s support, I hope you guys have loved the journey as much as I have and we are an IRONMAN! A course record by two hours? That’ll do!!"
Monger had his left leg amputated above the knee and with his right knee amputated below following his horror crash in April 2017.
He was just 17 at the time when he was competing in the Formula 4 British Championships at Donington Park.
Monger smashed into a stationary vehicle at 120mph and was left trapped inside his ca for more than 90 minutes as crews worked tirelessly to get him out of the wreckage.
It has since been described as one of British motorsport's most horrific crashes, but Monger has not let the life-altering incident deter him.
Billy Monger has raised millions for charity
PA
Now a Channel 4 presenter for their F1 coverage, Monger raised over £3million for Comic Relief in 2021 after covering a distance of 140 miles by walking, kayaking and cycling.
But the Ironman World Championships are regarded as the most challenging endurance event on the planet.
Monger successfully navigated the 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride and 26.2-mile run to become the youngest and fastest double amputee to complete the event.
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Billy Monger suffered the near-fatal crash in 2017
PA
His achievement led to an outpouring of support on social media, with many calling Monger a 'legend'.
One message read: "Absolute legend. What an incredible and inspirational human. Well done Billy."
Another posted: "What an achievement, totally inspirational so very happy to donate."
A third said: "What an incredible achievement, an inspiration to many!"
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