Tri-the-Gong triathlon festival
On a warm sunny morning on the first weekend of March, hundreds of lycra cladded bodies converged for the annual triathlon festival in Wollongong. Aptly named Tri-the-Gong, the two-day festival attracted record numbers of participants and spectators.
More than 2000 people took part from local and national triathlon clubs as well as international elite teams from Canada, Japan, the United States of America and Korea.
However, the participant base is starting to stretch beyond the clubs and elite, with event organiser Elite Energy offering new beginner categories aimed at attracting more people.
“We are trying to create new pathways for people to get introduced to the sport of triathlon. The tri-the-tri category is free for first timers and offers a taster of the triathlon experience, with a 200m swim, 8km ride and 2km run or walk.” Ally Strand from Elite Energy said.
I asked Ally why she thought people come to Wollongong to compete:
“It is a popular event because it is in a beautiful location, in a city, not far from a capital city. One of the things that keeps me coming back year after year is seeing people completing their first triathlon – their level of accomplishment and pride that they get in themselves from stepping outside their comfort zone is just such a great feeling” she said.
Tri-the-gong is the second most popular triathlon in Australia behind Jarvis Bay. Nationwide, triathlons are becoming more popular with Triathlon Australia reporting that membership rates increasing an average of 19 percent. Canberra alone saw an increase of 23 last year and Queensland and South Australia saw increases of more than 35 percent each.
Speaking to participants on the day, it was clear that everyone gets a special something out of the day, with many participants returning year after year.
“This is about my 20th [triathlon]. I do 4 or 5 a year. The whole atmosphere and challenge of it all really keeps me coming back” Morgan from Kiama said.
Beyond the free beginner category, entry fees are typical around $200 if you’re not a member of a triathlon club and $180 if you are. You also have to bring your own gear but any safe road bike and swim suit will do.
If your looking for a fun day out or to challenge yourself outside your comfort zone, Tri-the-Gong.
With Matt O’Brien
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