Normann Stadler announced his retirement from the sport today and we'd like to honor the 2-time Ironman World Champion with a gallery through the years.
Four weeks after his heart surgery in Germany Normann Stadler released the following statement through Team Commerzbank.
"I am flattered that so many people believe in my comeback. Nevertheless I know that I wouldn’t be able to achieve a world class level again."
We wish Normann very well in his future endeavors and hope to see him at various triathlons in maybe a different capacity. Meanwhile though we wish him and his wife all the best as they are currently expecting their second child.
All images © Timothy Carlson / slowtwitch.com
Normann Stadler returned to Kona in 2006 to take his second title.
A young Normann Stadler takes Ironman Australia in 2000.
That year in Kona Normann finished 3rd with fellow Germans Lothar Leder and Thomas Hellriegel right behind him. But he had already caught the attention of the media and race winner Peter Reid.
After finishing 4th in 2001 and 2003, Stadler came to Kona in 2004 and showed the world that a strong cyclist can win indeed.
A clearly elated Normann Stadler takes his first Ironman World Championship title in 2004.
New sponsors, new custom painted bike, but not a good day for the defending champion in 2005.
Pushing hard again in 2006.
Boy it is hot out here.
A hug for runner-up Chris McCormack from the 2006 champion Normann Stadler.
The day did not go well in 2007.
Running past Chris Lieto on Alii Drive in 2008.
Hmmm, how much time have I got?
Sometimes a caption is really not needed.
Normann surrounded by fast ladies in the 2009 Challenge Roth.
Cruising through the countryside in Germany at warp speed.
The background in Kona is always stunning.
But not so much fun when reduced to walking.
Posing for the sponsor in 2009.
Normann showed up as a very happy dad and husband in Kona in 2010.
2 great champions may indeed have had their last Kona appearance in 2010.
