It started with nausea and vomiting. It ended with a winning strategy and a marriage proposal. Simone Ruffini's victory in swimming's version of the marathon, at the world championships, involved a parade of emotions on Saturday.

Despite throwing up twice during the opening lap on the Kazanka River, the Italian eventually stood atop the podium under a light drizzle after the nearly five-hour 25km race, and held up a marriage proposal for his girlfriend and team-mate, Aurora Ponsele. She said yes.

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Source: http://www.theguardian.com/