Super-fast times led some to suspect a shorter than standard Ironman course. But the competition was fierce and quite real as Matt Hanson and Melissa Hauschildt set best-ever times for all advertised full distance Ironman brand events.

All photographs © Timothy Carlson

David Plese runs through tunnel by Woodlands Waterway.

Ironman Texas has a self-described transition fairy.

Lauren Brandon led the women’s swim in 48:19.

Andrew Starykowicz opened a 10 minute lead with an Ironman-best 3:54:59 bike split.

Matt Hanson overcame a two-minute deficit after the swim with a 4:07:27 bike split that left him a makeable 10 minutes down to Starykowicz.

Ivan Tutukin trails Max Becker early on the bike leg.

Lauren Brandon held to the lead on her way to a 4:38:15 bike split.

Michelle Vesterby of Denmark rode a women’s 6th-best 4:33:11 bike split on her way to 4th place.

The flat, fast track of the Hardy Toll Road section of the bike course contributed to fast times.

Two age groupers riding in close proximity.

Andrew Starykowicz seems to be floating on air as he leads the field on the first lap of the run. His 3:00:57 marathon left him in 8th place.

Matt Russell made a big step toward full recovery from his serious accident last October. A 4:05:56 bike split was splendid. His 3:02:38 marathon left him 14th.

Melissa Hauschildt ran a women's-best 2:57:07 on her way to victory.

For a moment, one runner found solitude amidst 2,500 competitors.

Five months after giving birth, Meredith Kessler ran 3:13:27 on her way to 4th place.

Leslie Smith ran 2:58:47 on her way to an 8:43:51 finish.

Matt Hanson and Ivan Tutukin dueled hot and heavy until Hanson broke away with 800 meters left for the win.

Matt Hanson and his wife Ashley share a smile after his third Ironman North America Championship.

Seppe Odeyn of Belgium finished 24th in 8:30:07

This crew took in the sunset and urged their athletes to ”Hurry Your Royal Hiney Up.”