Croc survivors splashdown
THAT it was the eve of stinger season did not worry the surviving riders of this year's Crocodile Trophy when they made it to Cape Tribulation yesterday.
With the finish line set up in front of an inviting ocean, the pink-skinned competitors wasted no time diving in to wash away a day’s worth of dust and grime after completing the 10-stage, 1300km mountain bike classic.
Check out all the Croc Trophy action in our picture gallery.
But Cairns' Phil Smith was one rider happy to forgo a dip in the water in favour of giving wife Jennie a kiss and cuddle.
The English native trained for a year to prepare for the race and wore a cheek-splitting smile upon achieving his goal.
"It feels good to be here and to know that I've done it. Now it's time to start thinking about what to do next," Smith said.
Wearing some of the dirt from her husband's cheek, Jennie admitted she would be happy if Phil took an extended break from his bike.
"It was a long 10 days," she said.
"He looks thinner, browner and dirtier than when I last saw him but he's beaming.
"I can tell he's very proud of himself and I couldn't be prouder of him."
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Ride of a lifetime: Many riders headed for the water but some preferred to share the achievement with their loved ones.
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