It marked a strong run of form for the 10-time Ironman New Zealand champion Brown, who continues to defy his years, turning 40 later this month. He was third at the weather-shortened Ironman New Zealand in March and runner-up at the inaugural Ironman Melbourne in April, which doubled as the Asian Pacific Championship.

After working with a bunch to catch swim leaders David Dellow and fellow Vision athlete Luke Bell on the bike today, Brown made his move early on the run. Bell and the Kiwi emerged from a five-strong group before Brown pushed clear at the 8km mark, opening up a one minute lead. However Dellow, the former Australian Olympic distance triathlete, moved slowly to close the gap on Brown, who had been suffering from a heavy cold this week.

Dellow made the pass at the 24km mark on the run and went on to record his rookie victory over the Ironman distance in 8:15.04 in the humid conditions, with Brown grabbing second place seven minutes behind.

"I had a cold last week and am still coughing which got me on the run,'' Brown said. "Still I am very happy with second place today and I will definitely be back next year.''