Opposition Leader and fitness buff Tony Abbott has been caught out underestimating the sporting prowess of a royal visitor.
The tongue-and-cheek exchange happened in Parliament's Great Hall as Prince Frederik of Denmark addressed 500 guests at a Prime Minister's luncheon to welcome him and wife Princess Mary to the country.
Opposition Leader Tony Abbott paid tribute to the Prince's marathon running abilities saying the 43-year-old had “a remarkable distinction of running a marathon in 3 hours and 22 minutes. Many of us in this building would wish to emulate that feat, sir".
Later, the prince corrected Mr Abbott.
“Actually its three hours and six minutes,” he said “but it's not about winning, it is about succeeding.”
The Prince told guests he had completed six marathons. He went on to acknowledge the strong ties between Australia and Denmark as they move towards “sustainable clean futures”.
“Danish companies which operate within Australia are making this possible through sustainable solutions,” said Prince Frederik.
Prime Minster Julia Gillard welcomed Denmark's commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 40 per cent before 2020.
“I know as Australia undertakes its own journey towards a low carbon future it has a great partner in Denmark. We are strengthened by your example and expertise.”
Denmark has built a substantial renewable energy industry and within the next 8 years aims to power half the country with wind energy.
The Danish royal's trip to Canberra concludes a month of fly in fly out visits from international Political A-Listers.
This afternoon Prince Frederik and Princess Mary visited the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, before concluding their official duties in Canberra by laying a wreath at the War Memorial.
Prince Frederik and Princess Mary are due to arrive in Melbourne tomorrow to continue their royal tour.