Category: Latest News

Seven Western Australian athletes travelled to Runaway Bay in QLD last week for the Australian Youth and Junior Super Sprint Championships, held as part of the Super Sprint Race Weekend from 14-18 December 2023.

Over four thrilling days, competitors engaged in a variety of multisport events, including the Le Mans race, Aquathlon, Mixed Relay, and the highly anticipated Super Sprint Finals on Sunday.

The team of WA travellers included Joshua Neervoort (Fremantle Triathlon Club), Connor Fraser (Bunbury Triathlon Club), Billie Mincham (Fremantle), Luke Williams (North Coast Triathlon Club), Will Cramsie (North Coast), Joshua Fletcher (Exceed Triathlon Club), and Ivan Nagel (EFS Triathlon Club).

Age categories for the event were Junior (15-18 years), Junior B (15-16 years), and Youth (13-14 years).

Day one, Thursday, was the Aquathlon. For our Junior athletes this consisted of an 8 lap swim course (400m) and a 4 lap run course (1500m). For our Youth athletes it was an 8 lap swim (400m) and 2 lap run (800m).

• Luke Williams – 3rd (Youth)
• Joshua Neervoort – 8th (Junior)
• Joshua Fletcher – 18th (Junior)
• Ivan Nagel – 29th (Junior) 
• Connor Fraser – 49th (Junior) 
• Will Cramsie – 68th (Junior)

Unfortunately, an injury prevented Billie Mincham from racing throughout the race weekend.

Day two, Friday, was the Le Mans, with Junior Athletes taking on a 400m run, 6km cycle and 400m run. Our Youth athletes competed across a 400m run, 4km cycle and 400m run.

• Luke William – 13th (Youth)
• Josh Neervoort – 4th (Junior)
• Ivan Nagel – 9th (Junior)
• Joshua Fletcher – 18th (Junior)
• Will Cramsie – 24th (Junior)
• Connor Fraser – 49th (Junior)
• Billie Mincham DNS

A severe electrical storm and heavy rain caused day two to be cut short just before noon.

Day three, Saturday, was a test of endurance for our WA athletes, with the Super Sprint race format.

Race 1:
Juniors took on the challenge of a 300m swim, cycle 6km, and 1.2km run. Youth completed a 200m swim, 4km cycle and 800m run.

• Luke Williams – 4th (Youth)
• Joshua Neervoort – 5th (Junior)
• Ivan Nagel – 9th (Junior)
• Joshua Fletcher – 22nd (Junior)
• Will Cramsie – 30th (Junior)
• Connor Fraser – 33rd (Junior)
• Billie Mincham DNS

Race 2:
In a challenging day of back-to-back racing, Juniors completed a 1.2km run, 6km cycle and 300m swim. Youth raced in an 800m run, 4km cycle and 200m swim.

• Luke Williams – 4th (Youth)
• Joshua Neervoort – 11th (Junior)
• Will Cramsie – 30th (Junior)
• Connor Fraser – 33rd (Junior)
• Joshua Fletcher – 36th (Junior)
• Ivan Nagel – 37th (Junior)

Day four, Sunday, got down to the nitty-gritty with the Youth and Junior finals. This race was a 300m swim, 8km cycle and 1.6km run.

Competing in the Junior C Male Final from WA was Will Cramsie and Connor Fraser. Will Cramsie put in a mammoth effort to claim third place, with Connor Fraser placing tenth in the race.

In the Junior A Male Final, Joshua Neervort, Ivan Nagel and Joshua Fletcher raced their hearts out to place 8th, 9th and 16th (respectively) in the race.

In a fiercely contested Youth A Men’s Final, Western Australia’s Luke Williams secured the gold and the title of 2023 Australian Youth Champion.

For the complete results from the weekend’s racing, please click here.

A huge congratulations to all Youth and Junior athletes who competed. We are very proud of your team spirit, passion for the sport and how you represented WA on the national stage. It’s fantastic to see all athletes supporting one another to be the best they can be.

Thank you so much to our Pathway Lead, Janine Kaye, for everything she has done in preparation for this weekend. Janine puts her heart and soul into supporting WA State Team athletes, and our athletes performance is a testament to her dedication and encouragement. Her support across race weekend was invaluable.

Thanks also to the athlete’s parents, supporters, and clubs for everything they have done to help ready these athletes for the next steps in their triathlon journey, and support them along the way. We can’t wait to see what the future has in store for Luke, Billie, Josh N, Josh F, Will, Ivan, and Connor.

Dear Triathlon WA Community,

We would like to provide you an update regarding Triathlon WA’s senior leadership.

Our Executive Director, Olivia Birkett, who recently joined us from Tennis West, has now accepted the role of CEO at Tennis West and thus resigned from her role at Triathlon WA.

This is a fantastic opportunity for Olivia, and whilst we would have loved for her stay, we are very excited for her. Olivia’s appointment to Tennis West CEO is a testament to her skills and experience within the sports industry.

Whilst she has only been at Triathlon WA for a short period, she has made a lasting impact leading the team, providing sound governance and financial oversight while supporting the broader triathlon participation and programs in Western Australia.

“It was a difficult decision, as I greatly enjoyed working with the Triathlon WA Board and staff and have been embracing all things triathlon. A sincere thank you to all members and clubs for your support during my time at TWA. The triathlon community is a great collective of people who are positive and hard-working, and I wish the sport every success.” said Olivia Birkett.

Olivia will work through until early February 2024, whilst we initiate the search for a new Executive Director.

Yours sincerely,

Brenden Koh

President
Triathlon Western Australia

• Triathlon Western Australia (TWA) is thrilled to announce a new partner for the Busselton Festival of Triathlon 
• Global Advanced Metals, one of the world’s leading suppliers of tantalum, is supporting the event, now in its 23rd year at this iconic location 
• In 2024, the event will be known as the Busselton Festival of Triathlon, presented by Global Advanced Metals 

The Busselton Festival of Triathlon presented by Global Advanced Metals, will run from 4-5 May 2024. 

Global Advanced Metals’ (GAM) core values of Integrity, Respect, Innovation and Responsibility are the pillars of their commitment to sustainable business operations that supports quality of life for current and future generations. 

High environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards are in keeping with Triathlon WA’s current and future plans. GAM’s environmental priorities cover items like air quality, water stewardship, waste management and biodiversity and land. 

Comments attributed to Triathlon WA Executive Director Olivia Birkett 

“The Busselton Festival of Triathlon has become a feature of the South West Region over the past 22 years, and is an important part of the triathlon racing season in WA. It features events for kids, novices, and more experienced triathletes.  

The 2024 event is expected to attract 2,000+ competitors and thousands of out-of-region visitors, generating more than $2.3 million for the local economy. 

Triathlon WA is thrilled to have GAM on board as presentation partner for the 2024 event.  Their strong commitment to the health and safety of the local community aligns well with our objectives for the Busselton Festival of Triathlon.” 

– END – 

For further information, contact: 

Mel Farley 
Commercial Operations Manager – Triathlon WA 
events@wa.triathlon.org.au – 08 9443 9778 

Following the Triathlon Western Australia (TWA) Annual General Meeting on Saturday 21 October 2023, we are pleased to announce the election of one (1) new Board Member, the re-election of one (1) Board Member, and the confirmation of two (2) new Life Members.

RESULTS OF BOARD ELECTION

Members of the Association had the opportunity to vote to fill two (2) elected Board vacancies. The two candidates selected were Brenden Koh (UWA Triathlon Club) and Steve Norton (Stadium Triathlon Club).

Thank you to our other nominees, Alana Zelones and Rebecca Speirs. We very much appreciate your nomination, and value your ongoing contribution to the Triathlon WA Community.

Brenden Koh – Re-Elected Board Member

• Previous Board and Senior Leadership Experience
• Senior Management Experience
• Club Leadership Experience
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Human Resources / People and Culture

Brenden is a returning Board Member, recently having served as President/Chair of Triathlon WA. His previous four years of board experience has prepared him to provide ongoing governance and strategic leadership. As a dedicated triathlete and former President of the UWA Triathlon Club from 2010-2018, Brenden understands the needs of athletes and clubs, and is a strong advocate for the role clubs play in our sport.

Brenden is passionate about fostering growth, inclusivity, providing opportunities for WA Athletes, and ensuring sound financial management of the sport.

He is a senior management leader with over 17 years of experience in professional roles spanning Risk, Human Resource Management, Operations management and Health & Safety. He holds a degree in Health Science, Postgraduate Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety, and a Master in Business Administration as well as AICD qualification in Advance Governance and is currently employed as Senior Health & Safety Business partner with an ASX100 listed company.

Brenden completed his first Triathlon in 2008 and has always been an active member of the UWA Triathlon Club, including the role of President from 2010 until 2018 and is a strong advocate for triathlon clubs and the role they play in this sport.

Steve Norton – Elected Board Member

• High Level Technical Officiating Experience
• Governance & Management
• Previous TWA Board Experience
• Previous Committee Experience

Steve has been involved in triathlon for many years, having served on the TWA Board previously from 2014-2019, and the Technical Reference Panel from 2015-2022. As a Senior Technical Official for AusTriathlon and World Triathlon, Steve brings a unique skillset and wealth of behind the scenes event experience with him.

Professionally, Steve works for the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation. He has completed certifications including the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AIOCD) course on Governance Foundations for the Not-for-profit Director, the AIOCD Advanced Governance Course, and an Advanced Diploma in Management.

CONFIRMATION OF BOARD LEADERSHIP TEAM

Following the Board Meeting on 25th October 2023, Triathlon WA is pleased to confirm the below Board Members in the leadership roles of President, Vice President and Treasurer respectively.

• President – Brenden Koh
• Vice President – Henrietta Farrell
• Treasurer – Lauren McGregor

For more information about all TWA Board members, please visit the Board Page here.

NEW LIFE MEMBERS WELCOMED

We are very pleased to confirm the election of two new Life Members of Triathlon Western Australia in recognition of their distinguished and innovative service to the sport.

David Budge – Life Member
For over 20 years Dave has led innovations and grown triathlon in Western Australia to what it currently is today. He’s provided quality and inclusive events for every type of person wanting to participate in triathlon and been Race Director for over 200 Triathlons in Western Australia, including over 50 State, National and World Championship events. Dave managed the first multisport event in the summers of 1991-92, the Coca Cola Aquathlon Series. It was a 3 race aquathlon series held at Scarborough Beach. The races were pitched as a battle of the codes between surf lifesavers and triathletes. In 2001 he was part of a group from Triathlon WA who pitched a triathlon event to the Geographe Tourism Association to be hosted in Busselton. This was the beginning of a long relationship between the sport of Triathlon and the City of Busselton. Dave played a significant role in managing the event for two decades including Race Directing the event from 2008 to 2021. At its peak the event was one of the largest Half Ironman races in the world, with over 3,000 participants racing as an individual or as part of a team. The “Busso Half” had established itself as one of the iconic mass participation sporting events in WA.

Vicki Delves – Life Member
Since becoming involved with triathlon, Vicki has tirelessly contributed to the sport. Her service record exceeds expectations demonstrated through her commitment to triathlon community both in terms of sustained involvement and participant focused engagement. Vicki’s association with City Triathlon Club began as a foundation member in 1993, she has undertaken a number of roles such as head coach and coordinator of the club’s TRYstars program for 15 years and more recently, club President (2021-23). This service that she has provided has also expanded to the wider triathlon community. Vicki has also contributed to the continued development of women in triathlon. In 1997, Vicki created the Women’s Triathlon Academy. This Academy, now in its 26th year, has been an integral part of the WA triathlon landscape and provided a safe and inclusive environment for women of all ages and abilities to experience triathlon. Vicki also volunteered her time as a guest speaker for Triathlon WA’s ‘Women in Sport’ initiatives and conducted women’s only cycling sessions. Vicki has also volunteered many hours to the triathlon community outside of her coaching activities; as a supporter and volunteer at the Weetbix triathlon; supporter, volunteer and participant of Women’s Triathlon event; the lead escort rider for elite athletes at Busselton for 5 years; a marshal at the School Sport WA triathlon events and as a member of the School Sport WA board.

Congratulations to our two new Life Members, Vicki and Dave. Both very deserving recipients.

On Sunday, 15 October 2023, Champion Lakes provided the perfect backdrop for an exciting day of racing, bringing together athletes from far and wide for the EXSS Sprint Duathlon. This race marked the second event in the Triathlon WA Senior State Series and the first event for the Junior State Series for 2023/24

While gorgeous blue skies made for excellent pictures, the competitors battled fierce headwinds and swirling gusts, making the race a true test of endurance and resilience. Hats off (literally) to the race organizers and volunteers for taking these gusty conditions in their stride and making the morning enjoyable for all. Having all participants re-enter the island only amplified the excitement making it an extremely spectator friendly course.

Driving participants to the finish line were thoughts of the famous EXSS recovery buffet; a post-race feast highly appreciated by hungry athletes.

Despite the seasonal conditions, duathletes of all ages poured their hearts into the competition to deliver outstanding performances across all age groups.

OPEN FEMALE FIELD:

UWA’s Sian Munks made a scorching start, clocking an impressive time of 17:15 on the first run leg into T1. Aleisha Wesley (North Coast) and Herlene Yu (Fremantle) were hot on her heels coming into T1 in second and third place.

As the race unfolded, Munks maintained her lead of over a minute as she settled into the cycle. Wesley pushed the pedal to the metal on her bike, outpacing Munks to slot into first place with a 3-minute lead. After T2, the rankings stood with Wesley in first place, Munks in second, and Yu in third.

The stakes were high as the second running leg commenced. Munks had the fastest run, but just couldn’t close the gap set by Wesley’s lightning-quick bike leg.

Wesley managed to maintain her lead and secured the victory, earning the title of State Duathlon Champion in a time of just 1:00:04.2. Munks finished in a super close second (1:00:39.9), with Yu in third place (1:03:55.4).

OPEN MALE FIELD:

Nick Thompson (UWA) and Reece Harris (Mandurah) both had super fast first run legs, crossing the timing mat almost simultaneously. Thompson took the initial lead with a speedy T1 out onto the cycle leg, followed closely by Harris. It was neck and neck heading into the bike course.

Matt Burton paced himself on the first run, coming into T1 in third place just a few seconds behind Harris. Ronan Hays (Mandurah) and Rowan Kerr (XTR) came into T1 in fourth and fifth respectively.

Showing his strength on the bike leg, Burton overtook both Harris and Thompson during the cycle to roll into T2 in first place.

After a quick transition, Burton continued to outpace his competitors on the final stretch, taking home a well-deserved win and State Championship title in just 51:05.7, ahead of Thompson in second place (51:47.8), and Harris in third (54:19.2).

Hays finished strong to land in fourth, and Kerr crossed the line in fifth, both adding Triathlete of the Year points to the board!

AGE GROUP STATE CHAMPIONS:

Age Group	Female Winner	Male Winner
20-24	Cassy Newman (Fremantle)	Daniel Buis (North Coast)
25-29	Amie Thompson (Stadium)	Jack McLeay (Exceed)
30-34	Melanie Wade (Stadium)	Chris Williams (Fremantle)
35-39	Alexandra Meek (UWA)	Joao Carlos Bernardes Neto (Non-Club)
40-44	Anna Massey (Exceed)	Mark Oakshott (Non-Club)
45-49	Alison Thompson (Exceed)	Danny Cobb (Mandurah)
50-54	Natasha Pertwee (Rockingham)	Russell Harris (Mandurah)
55-59	Lisa Hitchcock (North Coast)	Matt McKay (Mandurah)
60-64	Lise Ashton (Fremantle)	Andrew Johns (Bunbury)
65-69	Trish Vickery (Busselton)	Steve Ware (Non-Club)
70-74	NA	Ross Clark (XTR)

JUNIOR STATE CHAMPIONS:

This season saw the start of Junior State Championships, with the EXSS Duathlon being the inaugural crown to win.

Age Group	Female Winner	Male Winner
12-13	Florence Erskine (North Coast)	Dean Skroza (XTR)
14-15	Ella Rayner (North Coast)	Luke Williams (North Coast)
16-19	Erin Driscoll (North Coast)	Christophe Gardner (Bunbury)

THANK YOU:

Congratulations and heartfelt thanks to the dedicated volunteers, race directors, and staff for contributing to the success of the event. A massive appreciation goes out to the WA Technical Officials and all the athletes who participated!

More than 165 talented athletes will gather at the Champion Lakes Regatta Centre on Sunday, October 15th, starting at 8 am for the EXSS Sprint Duathlon, promising a day of thrilling and fast-paced racing.

It’s the Triathlon WA State Duathlon Championships for both the Junior State Series and Senior State Series, and it’s a chance for athletes to score some serious Triathlete of the Year Points. But here’s the kicker – it’s not just any race; it’s got the elite status of being a World Qualifying event for the World Triathlon Age Group World Championships. So, if you’re dreaming of donning the Green and Gold on the international stage, this is your golden ticket!

The racing format varies by age group. The Senior State Series and Junior State Series athletes in the 16-19 age group will take on the sprint course, which includes a 5km run, a 20km bike ride, and a final 2.5km run. Meanwhile, the Juniors State Series athletes in the 12-13 and 14-15 age groups will compete the Bolt with a 2.5km run, a 10km bike ride, and a 1.25km run.

In the open women’s category, after second place at the State Standard Distance, Sian Munks (UWA) is back to bring on some fast racing and is bound to push the pace on the run legs. Aleisha Wesley (NCTC), will be on the start line, determined to secure another State Championship win. Herlene Yu (Fremantle) fresh from representing Singapore at the Asian Games, is in excellent racing form and promises fierce competition.

The open men’s race features tough contenders, including Matt Burton (Oceanic), Reece Harris (Mandurah), Rowan Kerr (Team XTR), and Ronan Hays (Mandurah), who will battle it out for the Championship title. Burton recently clinched second place at the Standard Distance State Champs, while Harris secured fourth place. With the unique duathlon format, the race outcome promises to be an exciting spectacle.

The age group categories will witness the return of accomplished athletes such as Joao Carlos Berrnades Neto (Non Club) and Jason Bonser (Mandurah). Peter Brozicevich (Fremantle) is back in the WA racing scene after his impressive performance at the Ironman World Championships in Nice.

Anna Massey (Exceed) has her sights set on retaining her age group state champion title, and Melanie Wade (Stadium) who finished second last year, is sure to be a strong contender. Pip Laufmann (Stadium) and Jane Hardy (Busselton) are expected to showcase their skills in a highly competitive field.

To all participants, we extend our best wishes for a victorious and enjoyable competition. May the EXSS Sprint Duathlon be a thrilling event for all. Good luck and have fun!

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 2023 Annual General Meeting of Triathlon WA will be conducted from 3:00pm to 4.00pm (AWST) on Saturday, 21 October 2023.

We welcome members to arrive in person from 2:00pm for club networking opportunities and to meet our new office staff members.

Members of the Association will be able to attend the meeting in person at the nominated venue below OR online via Microsoft Teams (link provided below).

IN PERSON ATTENDANCE:
Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries Conference Room
246 Vincent Street, Leederville 6007
Join us in person from 2:00pm for networking, before a 3:00pm AGM start.

ONLINE ATTENDANCE:
Online via Microsoft Teams – Live Event
Join the Meeting Online from 3:00pm AWST
JOIN HERE

AGENDA:
The agenda for the Annual General Meeting can be found HERE.

ATTENDANCE AND VOTING:
Pursuant to Rule 21.1 of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022, each Individual Member and Life Member over the age of 18 years at the time of the Annual General Meeting is entitled to one (1) vote at that Annual General Meeting.  No other Member will be entitled to vote. 

Pursuant to Rule 22.1, each voting Member is entitled to appoint in writing, a natural person who is also a voting Member of the Association to be the Member’s proxy, and to attend and vote on the Member’s behalf at any General Meeting of the Association. To complete a proxy vote, please complete THIS FORM and return it to the Executive Director no later than 48 hours before the commencement of the meeting.

VOTING PROCEDURE:
Voting at the Annual General Meeting will be as per 20.4 of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022: At any meeting a resolution put to the vote of the meeting will be decided on a show of hands unless a poll is (before or on the declaration of the result of the show of hands) demanded:
(1) by the Chair; or
(2) by a simple majority of Individual Members.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION LIFE MEMBERS:
Pursuant to Rule 8.4 of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022, the Board may recommend to a General Meeting that any natural person who has rendered distinguished service to Triathlon in Western Australia through the promotion of the interests and objects of the Association be appointed as a Life Member. At the 2023 meeting, there will be two (2) members recommended to be appointed.

BOARD ELECTION:
An election for the two (2) vacant Board positions will be in accordance with Rule 25.2(5) of the Constitution of Triathlon Western Australia Incorporated dated October 2022.

Triathlon WA is committed to gender diversity within all levels of the sport in Western Australia, including a balanced representation of gender within its leadership.

October 1st 2023 marked the official start of the WA State Series with the highly anticipated Austal Tiger Snake Triathlon on Garden Island. Hosted by HMAS Stirling, the event drew more than 400 eager athletes ready to tackle the race on the base. This now iconic event helped athletes to shake off the winter cobwebs and put that off-season training to the test.

Early risers were treated to a double rainbow on the drive down to Rockingham, its vibrant colours setting an optimistic tone for the day’s challenges. Passing through the checkpoint and driving over the bridge onto Garden Island was in itself a unique thrill – making athletes and spectators alike feel very privileged to be part of the experience.

The pre-race atmosphere at the Austal Tiger Snake Triathlon was electric. Triathletes, fuelled by both adrenaline and caffeine, were visibly charged up and eager to take on the challenges that lay ahead.

After a humorous briefing, the swim action kicked off. As triathletes plunged into the water for their swim leg, they found themselves in the company of impressive frigates and submarines. Watching the athletes swim against the backdrop of naval vessels tall on the horizon was a visually striking spectacle.

View full results here.

OPEN MALES

In the Open Men’s category, the leaders emerging from the water were Kurt Wesley (North Coast), Reece Harris (Mandurah), and Nick Thompson (UWA), but it was Harris who seized the lead after a swift T1 transition. Thompson and Matt Burton (Oceanic) showcased their remarkable cycling prowess, closing the gap after the swim with fast-paced cycle legs.

Nick Thompson, the recent Sunshine Coast 70.3 winner, secured the title of State Standard Champion with an impressive and decisive victory, crossing the finish line with a nearly two-minute lead ahead of Matt Burton in second.

Having battled a recent niggle, Kurt Wesley pushed through for a strong performance, ultimately finishing in third place.

Unfortunately, Harris endured a bike crash as he approached T2, dropping him down to 10th place and leaving him with some gnarly cuts and bruises. Undeterred, he displayed remarkable resilience during the run, aggressively closing the gap between himself and the front pack of athletes to finish fourth in the Open field.

Experienced athletes including Simon Billeau, James Lewin, Paul MacKay, and James Martin, along with young-guns Noah Tonkin and Rowan Kerr, rounded out the top 10 positions.

OPEN FEMALES

Aleisha Wesley of North Coast showcased incredible swimming prowess, earning her a substantial lead as she emerged from the water and transitioned into T1 ahead of her fellow elite competitors, including Sian Munks from UWA and Madison Toovey, also from North Coast.

With a sizeable lead, Aleisha Wesley was the first to embark on the bike course. Sian Munks and Madison Toovey followed a few minutes behind, with Khloe Healy (non-member) and Indie Arbuckle (XTR) in pursuit.

Similar to Harris, Toovey picked up a few battle scars from her war with the asphalt after a pretty serious crash during the bike leg. Despite being scraped up, she displayed incredible courage and determination, choosing to persevere through the race and outpacing Munks across the 40km 2 lap course.

In the final stretch and during the run, Aleisha Wesley maintained her impressive pace, securing the title of State Standard Champion with a finishing time of 02:04:00.91. She crossed the finish line with a lead of more than five minutes over her competitors. Adding a personal touch to her victory, Aleisha was greeted at the finish line by her brother and fellow finisher, Kurt Wesley. Their friendly competition for the title of the fastest Wesley on the course was decisively won by Kurt, while Aleisha graciously accepted the result with playful sportsmanship.

Sian Munks showcased a dominating performance during the run leg, propelling herself back into second place for a strong finish. Madison Toovey, just two minutes behind, delivered an inspiring performance, demonstrating remarkable determination and resilience to secure a well-deserved third place in the race on the base.

Khloe Healy crossed the line in fourth place, followed by young-gun Indie Arbuckle in fifth place.

FAMILY MOMENTS:

James Martin shared his 8th place finish line moment hand in hand with his son, and Cid De Carvalho receiving motivational hi-fives from his daughters as he entered the finish chute. Even the littlest fans got in on the excitement, as “Baby Burton” ran around, spreading joy and making new friends.

SHOUT OUTS:

Congratulations and thank you to HMAS Stirling volunteers, staff and event organisers for an excellent race. Thanks also to WA Technical Officials and all athletes that took part in the race on the base.

Three of our elite males also had their dads competing alongside them! Nick and Paul Thompson, Kurt and Dale Wesley, and Reece and Russell Harris. Two generations of athletes!

Huge shoutout to Esperance Triathlon Club making the journey to join in on the State Championships. That’s dedication – and a really long drive!

For Paul Smith, the day held a momentous achievement as he clinched his first State Championship medal.

Local legend Dale Wesley made a triumphant return after a 10-year break, landing in 3rd place for his age group. Talk about making a grand re-entrance!

It was Andrew Lockwood’s first race in the Open category, stepping up from age group.

AGE GROUP STATE STANDARD DISTANCE CHAMPIONS 2023/24

Congratulations to all athletes who competed in the Tiger Snake Classic Triathlon, and to our new State Champions.

Place	Age Group	Female	Male
1	Open	Aleisha Wesley	Nick Thompson
2	Open	Sian Munks	Matt Burton
3	Open	Madison Toovey	Kurt Wesley
1	20-24	Ella Phelan	Oliver Terry
2	20-24	Caroline Wallis	Jaxon Bilchuris
3	20-24	NA	Blake Messenger
1	25-29	Kristin Boyle	Aidan Clark
2	25-29	Kate Byrne	Josh Dallimore
3	25-29	Lisa Kleinhaus	Paul Smith
1	30-34	Jessica Kiekbosch-Fitt	Rhys Williams
2	30-34	Melanie Wade	Ben Stone
3	30-34	Jessica Papini	Ben Atter
1	35-39	Emma Moon	Loic Draoulec
2	35-39	Alexandra Meek	Duncan Kinnear
3	35-39	Floora De Wit	Jarryd Heldt
1	40-44	Danni Jones	Brett Johnson
2	40-44	Rebecca Lewis	Philipp Albert
3	40-44	Camilla Swenson	Phil Corrick
1	45-49	Fiona Yard	Barry Williams
2	45-49	Eve O’Hare	Matthew Moonen
3	45-49	Alison Thompson	Mat Genevieve
1	50-54	Fiona Hampton	Bart Hollemans
2	50-54	Alison Ramm	Russell Harris
3	50-54	Ann-Marie Potts	Jason Bonser
1	55-59	Caroline Anderson	Paul Thompson
2	55-59	Pip Laufmann	Martin Depiazzi
3	55-59	Jane Hardy	Anthony Wilson
1	60-64	Lise Ashton	Andrew Johns
2	60-64	Ruth Metcalf	Darryl Harris
3	60-64	Monica Borrill	Dale Wesley
1	65-69	Trish Vickery	Barry Silverlock
2	65-69	NA	George Funk
3	65-69	NA	Mike Bosch
1	70-74	NA	David Whiteley

The WA triathlon community is buzzing with excitement and anticipation ahead of the Austal Tiger Snake Classic Triathlon this Sunday, 1 October 2023. This race is the first State Series event of the new season, and also doubles as the Standard Distance State Championship.

HMAS Stirling will once again welcome the WA triathlon community to the unique and exclusive Garden Island Naval Base, with triathletes from all over the state are converging for a thrilling showdown.

The Tiger Snake Classic is renowned for its spectacular course including a 1.5km harbour swim with a backdrop of submarines and frigates, and a 40km cycle on completely closed, smooth roads. The 10km run course will take athletes through the wharf precinct before crossing the finish line at the sports pavilion and main oval.

While the windy and wet weather is set to be a test of the competitors resilience, the excited spirit of the community remains undampened.

Best of luck to all athletes competing!!

THE MALE ELITE FIELD PREVIEW

Race morning will kick off with the Open Male wave, which boasts an impressive line up of 22 athletes – many of whom have plenty of experience and a few wins under their belt.

Among them is the recently crowned Sunshine Coast IRONMAN 70.3 Champion, Nick Thompson (UWA), who will certainly put up an excellent fight for top spot.

Matt Burton (Oceanic), James Martin (Mandurah) and Simon Billeau (Stadium) are all known for their impressive cycling skills, meaning they may have an advantage when combatting crosswinds on the cycle course.

Young guns Reece Harris (Mandurah), Daniel Buis (North Coast), Rowan Kerr (XTR), Harry Sinclair (UWA), and non-members Andrew Lockwood, Karl Haugg, Noah Tonkin, and Marcus Wirth will all give the older athletes a run for their money.

Kurt Wesley will be one to watch as he looks to compete with sister and fellow North Coast team mate Aleisha for the fastest Wesley sibling on course.

Tried and true triathletes David Cowlishaw (non-club), Paul Mackay (ADF), James Lewin (Stadium) and fellow competitors Hayden Thorpe (non-member), William Finlay (Perth), Ryan Aberle (non-member), Joshua Fearnley (non-member) and Joseph Laurendi (Mandurah) round out the field.

THE FEMALE ELITE FIELD PREVIEW

A small but strong female field of 6 is set to take on the Tiger Snake course in the second wave of the day, and features some of WA’s best and brightest women in triathlon.

Reigning Open Triathlete of the Year and 2022 Tiger Snake Champion Aleisha Wesley (North Coast) is the top seeded female. With a quick swim and well rounded multisport skills, she may very well take home another win.

Following a third place in this race and some excellent results last season, Sian Munks (UWA) is back to try again for the Tiger Snake crown. Previously a runner, Sian has the skills to really set the pace on the final stretch.

U23 triathletes Indie Arbuckle (XTR) and Madi Toovey (North Coast) both have plenty of race experience behind them. Madi has been focused and consistent in her training so far this season, as she continues her build for her first 70.3 in December, which should shine through in her Tiger Snake performance. Indie has been balancing the high demands of tertiary study alongside her training, but her determination and passion will help drive her on to the finish line.

2023 Busselton 100 third placer and excellent long distance athlete Khloe Healy (non-member) rounds out the female field.

AGE GROUP FIELD PREVIEW

A number of 2022/23 State Champions will be returning to defend their title as Age Group king or queen of Standard Distance.

Victoria Gill (Stadium), Emma Moon (Phoenix), Eve O’Hare (XTR), Ann-Marie Potts (North Coast), Pip Laufmann (Stadium), Lise Ashton (Fremantle), Loic Draoulec (Stadium), Barry Williamson (Mandurah), Andrew Johns (Bunbury), Barry Silverlock (North Coast) will be amongst the contenders for the crown.

The support from family, friends, and fellow triathletes is expected to be a driving force behind the athletes impressive performances as they tackle the course.

If you’re not participating, don’t miss the chance to witness the epic race on the base. Spectators will be treated to a thrilling day of competition, scenic views, and a vibrant atmosphere. So pack your rain gear, your pom poms, and your best cheering voice.

Remember you cannot get onto the island without a wristband for security reasons, so don’t forget to grab one for spectators at race pack pickup. More info: https://www.tigersnakeclassic.com/spectator-information