AN Ambleside tri-athlete has dominated the world’s toughest triathlon – and set a new record.

Fresh from his success at the Norseman Xtreme triathlon in the summer, super-fit Chris Stirling, a member of Kendal Tri Club, wanted to take on another challenge.

The triathlete went on to compete The Brutal Extreme Triathlon – an event that has been voted the world's toughest – and took control of the race from the start.

Not only did he come out on top he even managed to knock a massive 42 minutes off the cycle course record.

“The first lap of the lake run was a bit stressful as I didn’t know if I was in the lead or chasing people,” said Mr Stirling.

“It was then on lap two that I then learned I was 40 minutes ahead of second place so I just had to keep going.”

The distance of the race was similar to that of an Ironman course.

It consisted of a 3.8-kilometre swim in Lake Padarn, a 115-mile bike ride with more than 3000-metres of ascent and a final 25-mile run taking the racers on an undulating trail around the lake and up and down Snowdon, Wales’ highest mountain.

“I actually really enjoyed the mountain stage,” said Mr Stirling.

“It was very atmospheric with mist swirling about and the run was fantastic. I love fell running so that was my favourite bit.”

With one huge title already in the bag, he’s not stopping there – Chris has already signed up for his next challenge, the Patagonman in Chile, another extreme triathlon, on December 9.