ironman

noun

1. An extremely tough and strong athlete, especially one who competes in extreme athletic competitions or in a large number of games consecutively.
2. (Australia)A form of surf lifesaving competition which combines swimming, board paddling, ski paddling and running.

   “The catalyst for this rift was the ironman, a multi-discipline sport combining swimming, running, surf-skis and paddle-boards. Introduced to Australia in 1965 by touring American lifeguards, the ironman is a test of stamina, strength, and diverse skill.”

3. An extreme form of triathlon, expecially one organised by the World Triathlon Corporation that comprises a 2.4-mile swim, a 112-mile bike race and a marathon run.

   ““Every sense of your body is taken over by the climate,” said the New York City native Christopher Bergland, who set a record at triple ironmans (7.2-mile swim, 336-mile bike, 78.6-mile run) but failed to finish one of his three Badwater races.”

4. (broadly)The winner of such a lifesaving event or triathlon.