Zippy Zanardi powers to new world record!

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Alex Zanardi's extraordinary mettle has been well chronicled in the past thanks to the former F1 driver's outstanding Paralympic exploits.

But the Italian, who lost both legs in a horrendous IndyCar crash back in 2001, continues to garner the admiration and awe of all.

Zanardi took part on Saturday in Cervia in Italy's Ironman competition in which the unstoppable racer came in fifth overall, among 3000 competitors!

The 51-year-old's adventurous day included a new world record for disabled athletes in a long distance triathlon. To some things up, it was 8:26.06 hours of swimming (3.8 km), cycling (180 km) and 42.2 km with the olympic wheelchair.

How's that for a Saturday workout?

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.