House debates

Wednesday, 12 October 2011

Statements on Indulgence

Alexander, Mr Craig

3:20 pm

Photo of Scott MorrisonScott Morrison (Cook, Liberal Party, Shadow Minister for Immigration and Citizenship) Share this | | Hansard source

I just rise to celebrate Craig Alexander's victory at the recent World Ironman championships in Kona, Hawaii, where he smashed the 15-year-old course record after a gruelling swim and 180 kilometres on a bike, topped off by a 42-kilometre run. Craig has become the first Australian and only the fourth man to win the race three times. At 38 he is also the oldest man to take out the title. After fighting off cramps, Craig crossed the line in just eight hours, three minutes and 56 seconds, a new record and arguably the greatest performance in Australian triathlon history. Craig is a lifetime member of the Cronulla Triathlon Club and has lived in the shire for more than 15 years. On Sunday his wife and manager, Nerida, and his kids, Lucy and Austin, were there to share his victory. In 2008, when he crossed the finishing line, Craig was literally bowled over by his four-year-old daughter.

Once asked about the secret to his motivation and success, Craig answered, 'I just try to become better at swimming, biking and running every year.' Friends and rivals agree Craig's work ethic is unparalleled and he is as humble, modest and down-to-earth as they come. Six-time world champion Dave Scott called him 'the first true men's champion the sport has seen in years'. It is only fitting that we recognise his perseverance, achievements, character and great sportsmanship in this place. Congratulations, Craig. You are a great Australian and a credit to the shire.

Photo of Harry JenkinsHarry Jenkins (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

Order! I say to the member for Cook that he stretched the briefness a bit far but for a worthwhile cause. Even as a Melbournite, I know sometimes that the shire rules!

3:23 pm

Photo of Anthony AlbaneseAnthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the House) Share this | | Hansard source

Thank you, Mr Speaker. You do not know how controversial that last statement was!

Photo of Harry JenkinsHarry Jenkins (Speaker) Share this | | Hansard source

I suspect I do, actually!

Photo of Anthony AlbaneseAnthony Albanese (Grayndler, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the House) Share this | | Hansard source

On behalf of the government, I join with the member for Cook in congratulating Craig Alexander on this great achievement by a great Australian sportsman. I also have a connection with the shire by in-laws and I join with the member for Cook in congratulating Mr Alexander.