The Hawaiian Ultraman World Championship is regarded as one of the toughest events on the planet, and Cairns based Mike Le Roux overcame gruelling pain and a field of world class athletes to take the title.

Mr Le Roux was honoured in a civic reception last night for his performance in which he completed a 10km swim, a 421km cycle ride and an 84km run.

Mayor Val  Schier said the Ultraman winner had done the region proud in his accomplishment.

“Mike ran second in the Canadian Ultraman only four months before he won in the Ultraman in the Hawaiian Islands.  Winning in such arduous conditions takes far more than physical stamina and training,” Cr Schier said.

“Winning under those circumstances takes strategy and mental prowess that is far beyond most of us. Yet he has demonstrated some recognisable Australian traits – persistence, toughness and resiliency.”

Mr Le Roux said he and his wife Kirsten had moved to Cairns in 2007 from Melbourne, to enjoy a better work life balance.

“We wanted to have access to training opportunities especially with regards to trail running and adventure racing. Cairns has so much to offer from a sporting and training perspective.,” he said.

“The climate and weather is ideal to train all year round.  Training in a humid, tropical environment has given me the edge against competitors nationally and internationally.”

Mr Le Roux will compete in the Cairns Challenge this coming June; a triathlon that will include 3.8km swim, a 180km bike ride and a 42.2km run with a finish line in the heart of Cairns.

“I personally believe that this race will further establish Cairns as the sporting and outdoor adventure capital of Australia,” he said.

“Not only will this put Cairns on the map through the sports tourism initiatives, it will also encourage local infrastructure upgrades, but most importantly, I believe that it will engender a culture of sport, activity, healthy living and local participation.”

To date almost 1000 competitors from 14 countries have registered for the Cairns Challenge that will take place in June 5, 2011