The word ‘iconic’ is thrown around a lot in the world of sport and sporting events, particularly in triathlon. This occurs mostly over well-earned coffees after long rides and over a drink or two after completing a goal event.
But there is one event that can claim to be ‘iconic’ and has the history and reputation to back up the statement - the Nepean Triathlon.
Initially being run and won on the banks of the Nepean but now conducted at the picturesque Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC), it holds a special and unique place in the sports history and continues to be the hold the mantle as ‘Australia’s Oldest Triathlon’!
The Nepean organising committee and Triathlon NSW is thrilled to be able to confirm that the Nepean Triathlon will return to celebrate it’s 40th birthday across the weekend of Saturday 22nd and Sunday 23rd October.
The event will once again offer four distances:
- Nepean Triathlon (1km, 30km, 10km)
- Enticer Distance (250m, 10km, 2.5km)
- Nepean Tweens Triathlon (150m, 5km, 1.25km)
- Kids Triathlon (50m, 2km, 500m)
For many NSW and Australian Athletes this event is rightfully considered the unofficial start of the season and brings large numbers of competitors together, from the beginner through to the experienced alike.
And whilst COVID has caused extreme disruption for everyone, for this iconic event - it’s nearly been too much to survive.
In 2020, the event was the first to be delivered as Australia emerged from it’s first COVID lockdown - limited to 400 on the start line. With only 400 on the start line, it fell well short of financial ‘breakeven’. But for those charged with organizing the event, profit has never been a motivator. Instead, they are driven by ensuring the price remains cost effective and the event is inclusive. Despite the desire not to miss a year, 2021 left them with no option with extended lockdowns cancelling the event for the first time in it’s history.
Dating back to inception in 1982 when a couple of mates (after seeing the Hawaiian Ironman on TV) decided to stage their own triathlon at the foot of the Blue Mountains, the Nepean Triathlon has attracted elite athletes from around the world, age group combatants, first timers and some that complete the Nepean Triathlon as an annual ritual.
The Hall of Fame reads as a who’s who of Australian Triathlon, with great names such as Gentle, Sexton, Welch, Beven, Murray and 6-time winner and Triple Olympian, Aaron Royle.
But this event is not just about the professionals, it’s also about the Age Group legends who do this event time and time again. Legend like Eugene Irwin, Greg Chapman, Peter Smith and Greg Davies who have now done 39 straight Nepean Triathlons.
The Nepean Triathlon will also feature on the Forager Sydney Triathlon Premier and League 1 calendars, with the Standard distance being the Performance Points distance, which is sure to build mystery, intrigue and attention to what is already a huge event.
It's with great excitement that after floods (x 3) and pandemic lockdown (x2), Joey and his crew have been given the green light and the event will return for it's 40th year.
2022 is a pivotal year for the event.
For all current members, future members, or previous members, now is the time to show your support of this event. For the event to be successful and sustainable, organisers are seeking at least 1,000 athletes to be on the start line and be part of the 40th running of Australia’s Oldest Triathlons.
Entries for the 40th Nepean Triathlon are NOW ON SALE - Nepean Triathlon Entry | Nepean Triathlon | 26-27 October 2019
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