It takes a strong person to compete in the Ironman races-both mentally and physically. It takes an extraordinary person to win two Ironman World Championships, hold the women’s Ironman-distance world record, and remain undefeated in the race distance. Add an always present smile and a heart dedicated to helping others and you have the always endearing Chrissie Wellington.

A USA National Team member every year since going professional in 2003, Andy Potts is viewed as one of the most dominant male triathlete in the country.

TJ Tollakson knows what it means to push his body to the limits. Having injuries and setbacks in the heat of training and competition, he has learned to squeeze every ounce of ability out of himself to continue developing into one of the top elite athletes in the sport of triathlon.

In the rough waters of the 2.4-mile swim during the 2009 Ironman World Championships, the biggest threat will not be the taxing currents or the crashing waves. It will be the king of the swim leg, John Flanagan.

TYR triathlete Andy Potts talks about his competitive streak and how he has developed into the champion he is today. Check out the interview video after the jump.

Contributing her love for the Hawaii Ironman to the heat, winds, and pro field, New Zealand triathlon sensation Joanna Lawn will embark on her tenth World Championships on October 10th.