Sam Clark has successfully defended his longest day Coast to Coast title, beating out three-time champion Braden Currie.
Clark crossed the line in 11h 02m 43s while Currie crossed the line in 11h 10m 20s
Things started much differently in the race, with Currie leading by 12 minutes at the 67km kayak stage, but Clark kept focused and cut the deficit heading into 70km cycling leg.
The man from Whakatane passed Currie with 25km to go in the race.
When Clark crossed the line, he was pumped and excited.
"Never stop fighting," said Clark.
"It's never over till it's over.
"I can't think straight. I don't think I have ever focused so hard in my life."
Clark credits his attitude for staying focused and coming out on top.
"To be the best you have to beat the best and I did it.
"I said I would win and I did. You have to have that winning attitude."
The 243km race started at Kumara beach before finishing in New Brighton in Christchurch.
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