New Zealand surf lifesaver Devon Halligan has withdrawn from round three of the Telstra Ironwoman series due to health concerns.
Halligan, the 20-year-old daughter of former Kiwis league player Daryl Halligan, has been diagnosed with myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart most often caused by infection.
However, Halligan, who is based on Australia's Gold Coast, wrote on her Facebook page that she hopes to race again soon.
"Unfortunately have had to withdraw from Round 3 of the Telstra Ironwomen Series this weekend due to low grade myocarditis (heart infection)," she wrote. "I appreciate the support from everyone, this isn't the way anyone wants the start their Series off, however everything is being done to get fit and healthy and back racing as soon as possible."
Halligan has struggled on her first season on the tough series and was in last place heading into this weekend's third round at Portsea on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.
