It’s been a long time between drinks for ACT, who are re-entering the School Sport Australia Triathlon and Aquathlon Championship for the first time since 2018. And it’s proving to be an excitement moment for territory duo, Jack Dunn and Tara Holmes.
“I feel a lot of pride and honour in being selected to represent not just myself, but my school, my state and everyone who is supporting me. There’s also a strong sense of responsibility, especially as one of the older members of the team, to set a high standard and be encouraging to the younger athletes,” said Jack Dunn.
For Holmes, this selection was about more than just being chosen in the team but inspiring the next generation of triathletes within the ACT.
“ACT hasn’t sent a team for triathlon/aquathon since 2018 so I’m grateful we were able to get a team this year and to be chosen as the team captain.”
The workload is intense for the athletes who’ve been selected with Dunn and Holmes outlining that a normal week includes roughly “10 training sessions” which typically encompasses a mix of “swimming, running and bike skills.”
In fact, it can be quite the balancing act, having to juggle training, with school, work and everyday life with Dunn usually opting for a before school swim or run.
And while the training has been intense, it’s provided a great opportunity for Holmes to connect with other triathletes, an experience she doesn’t often get.
“It’s great to be able to train alongside my team ACT athletes as I don’t normally train with other triathletes. I have my swim squad and my run squad and I do bunch rides, but being able to train with other triathletes has been a great experience.”
It’ll be the first time this ACT duo will feature at the event and it’s both a mix of excitement and nerves.
“It’s really exciting, especially knowing I now have the opportunity to race against some of the best athletes in Australia. I feel proud and very motivated to train hard in the leadup so that I can put my best foot forward,” said Dunn.
The selection has been made even sweeter for Holmes, who is set to pull on the tri-suit alongside her younger sister, Katherine.
“It’s bittersweet because it will be my first and last time representing the ACT at the School Sports Australia Triathlon and Aquathon Championships, but I’m lucky to be on the team with my younger sister Katherine.”
The competition is a perfect chance to race against some of the best in the country and often acts as a benchmark for the rest of the year.
Dunn is taking this opportunity to learn from the rest of the field and is “looking forward to racing against the best athletes from around Australia” while for Holmes, this week presents some familiarity having competed at the Super Sprint Championships at the same venue but under different circumstances.
“I’ve competed at Runaway Bay before, however it has just been myself or one other ACT athlete. I’m looking forward to being able to compete with a large ACT team and many of my swim squad teammates and friends.”
The School Sport Australia Triathlon and Aquathlon Championship will commence 16 – 20 March 2026.
