Last year, Tamika Baynes stood on the sidelines in Townsville, forced to watch the World Triathlon Multisport Championships unfold without her after breaking her collarbone just weeks out from race day.
Today in Pontevedra, she crossed the finish line as a world champion.
The Queenslander capped off a remarkable comeback to win gold in the 20–24 Female Age Group at the Cross Triathlon World Championships – her debut race in the green and gold after missing last year’s home event.
“This has been two years coming,” Baynes said post-race.
“It means so much because it’s been such a long time coming. I spent all last year building up for the race and then had to do it all again this year after crashing and rebuilding fitness. I’m over the moon, I’m so happy and so proud.
“It means so much, representing my country. I’m just so happy to be here, I feel so proud.”
Adding to the emotion of the moment, Baynes was joined on course by her dad, Damian, who finished ninth in the 55–59 Male Age Group and shared in the special milestone with his daughter.
“I’m immensely proud of my daughter today,” he shared.
“It’s a lifelong memory isn’t it. It’s the stuff you remember when you’re older and think back to the things you did with your kids. We’ve been racing together since she was less than ten, so it’s cool that we’re still doing it after all these years.”
2025 Australian Cross Triathlon Champion Laura Gillard added to the celebrations, securing silver in the Under 23 Female category to cement her status as one of the nation’s leading off-road elites.
With Baynes’ gold and Gillard’s silver, Australia’s medal tally in Pontevedra climbs to seven – including three gold, three silver and one bronze.
More multisport action continues on Thursday in Pontevedra with the Cross Duathlon World Championships, where both Baynes and Gillard will take to the start line again.
For full results from the World Triathlon Cross Triathlon Championships, click here.
