Triathlon: Carter recounts Olympic triumph

11.00pm - By DANIEL GILHOOLY

Hamish Carter recounts today's history-making triathlon race:

On the 1500m swim:

Carter: "I've actually worked really hard on my swim to become a stronger swimmer. I haven't really swum that well and really struggled in the water.

"The turns (of the swim course) were quite gentle so the pack stayed together. I came out mid pack or just below."

On the 40km cycle:

"As soon as I got on the pack I knew I was OK as I was still together and I was riding really well and felt pretty strong.

"The first time up the hill it was pretty tough -- thanks Bevan -- and then each time I went up the hill I started to feel better and better.

"We seemed to be shedding a few guys each time we went up the hill (five times) which was great because it meant there were less people to run with."

On the 10km run:

"I was pretty relaxed on the first couple of laps. Watching the women's race, things happened on the last kilometre.

"I was pretty cautious all the way through. I was still feeling good with a kilometre to go so we just started to stretch it there. I wasn't sure how good Bevan was feeling.

"He's beaten me so many times over the last couple of years so I just dug it in.

"And then we've got two Kiwis on the podium. How amazing is that. New Zealand is such a cool country."

- NZPA