Three Gunnedah athletes delivered outstanding results on the national stage, claiming podium finishes at the AusTriathlon National Sprint Distance Championships last Sunday.
Featuring a 750m swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run, the championships marked the final race of the season and showcased the depth of talent from across Australia.
Donna Hickey led the way as she claimed the Australian championship title in the 65-69 age group.
Hickey dominated her age group from the outset, leading from start to finish in a commanding performance to secure gold.
Kelly Watson added to the medal tally with a hard-fought bronze in the 45-49 age group.
Exiting the water in second place, Watson was challenged on the bike before producing a strong run to secure another national podium placing.
Sarah Stewart claimed bronze in the 35-39 age group, continuing her consistent rise at national level.
Stewart’s performance was highlighted by a notable improvement on the bike, cutting more than four minutes from last year following a period of focused training and a recent equipment upgrade.
In her first Australian championships appearance, Emmy Barr delivered a strong debut in the 20-24 age group while gaining valuable experience.
The event was part of the Pho3nix Gold Coast Triathlon Festival and the Luke Harrop Memorial Triathlon, with Hickey finishing first, Watson third and Stewart fifth overall in their age groups.
Adding to the weekend, four-year-old Harry Stewart took part in his first event as he competed alongside his dad Lincoln in the Pho3nix Kids 1km fun run.
Lincoln and Harry Stewart.
Sarah Stewart.
