After an incredible 2025 season, Anu Francis has been honoured at the South Australia Sports Awards winning both the Athlete of the Year and Performance of the Year.
Despite not being in attendance due to racing at the World Triathlon Para Series race in Yokohama over the weekend, Francis took a moment to reflect upon what the award means to her.
“I’m extremely honoured to be awarded with both Athlete of the Year and Sports Moment of the Year,” she said.
“The Athlete of the Year award is significant to me knowing that it represents male, female and para athletes across all sports. To have a female para athlete be included and recognised in this way truly means a lot to me.”
It was a fairytale season for Francis who claimed the 2025 World Triathlon Para Championships in Wollongong on home soil to cap off her unbeaten season. As the first Australian to win a PTS2 women’s world title, this milestone achievement marked a significant first for Para‑triathlon and elevated not only Francis’ profile but so too the sport’s national stance.
“What people often see is a small snapshot of the journey – the highlights, the medals the finish lines. But to be able to pause and celebrate this moment with my South Australian community through awards like this is incredibly meaningful.”
This moment inspired not only athletes from across the country but also closer to home in South Australia, demonstrating what is possible through perseverance and dedication.
“I really love being based here [South Australia] and I’m really proud to represent South Australia both nationally and internationally. The connection to home means a lot to me and days like this make it feel even more special,” she said.
Anu’s story is one of commitment, hard work and grit and the World Champion has left a lasting impact across the state. With South Australian State Service Manager Laura Bond, highlighting how her achievements have motivated emerging athletes and strengthened community pride across the state.
“Anu is an integral member of our South Australian triathlon community and we’re incredibly lucky to have someone who is so passionate about not just the sport, but the people involved too.”
“Anu consistently sets the bar high and delivers in all facets whether it’s training, competing or advocating for equality. She has put South Australia on the map for triathlon, and we can’t wait to see what this year holds for her,” she said.
2025 season milestones:
- Oceania Triathlon Para Championships Mooloolaba – 1stplace PTS2 Women
- World Triathlon Para Series Yokohama – 1stplace PTS2 Women
- World Triathlon Para Series Montreal – 1stplace PTS2 Women
- World Triathlon Para Championships Wollongong – 1stplace PTS2 Women
- World Triathlon Para Series Devonport – 1stplace PTS2 Women
