Andy Potts celebrates after crossing the finish line to win the Ironman Coeur d’Alene. (SR photo: Bruce Twitchell)

Andy Potts did the hard work, “swallowing a lot of Lake Coeur d’Alene” in choppy swimming conditions, overcoming gusty winds on the bike and a so-so first loop of the run. “Coming down Sherman Avenue I was happy but my body was saying, ‘You need to be done right now,’ ” Potts said. “I said to myself, ‘Let the crowd pull you home.’ ” Potts raised both arms in celebration, took a quick glance behind to make sure he was safely ahead and crossed the finish line, earning his second Ironman Coeur d’Alene title in a time of 8 hours, 25 minutes and 44 seconds. ...Canada’s Heather Wurtele followed her pre-race plan – with the exception of another aggravating flat tire – to defend her women’s championship. She timed 9:34.32, well off her 2013 course record of 9:16.02 but comfortably in front of second-place Kelly Williamson’s 9:50.07. Jessica Smith placed third in 9:58.42/Jim Meehan, SR. More here.