Instant sponsored triathlete Jodie Swallow got off to a flying start at the 2011 Ironman St George in Utah, and for a while it looked like she might win at her first attempt at the Ironman distance. A troublesome foot injury forced her to retire, however, after taking a big lead onto the final event.

The Utah course is one of the most challenging long-course triathlons out there, with punishing bike and running course and strong winds throughout.

First up was the water, and Jodie led at this stage. She reinforced this position on the bikes, with her closest rival a full five minutes behind.

In the marathon, however, Jodie was forced to retire because of  a long-term foot injury.

She has vowed to recover soon however, and is sure to be featuring in more ironman contests in the near future.