As we continue our NSW Triathlon Ambassador series, we’re thrilled to welcome back Erin Hargrave, a fiercely competitive age‑grouper, long‑time member of Cronulla Triathlon Club, and regular State and National title holder who has proudly represented Team Australia.
Erin’s story is one of longevity, grit and passion – 18 years in the sport, countless podiums, and a life built around balancing training, work and motherhood. She returns this season with big goals, a tight‑knit training community, and a drive to keep inspiring others through her sporting journey.
For those who may not know you, can you introduce yourself and share how you first found triathlon?
I’m Erin Hargrave, racing in the 40–44 age group and a proud member of Cronulla Triathlon Club. I’ve been doing triathlons for around 18 years – my first race was a sprint triathlon in Huskisson. I had no idea I’d fall in love with the sport, but that first race changed everything.
I came from a track running background and needed a change. A friend suggested triathlon, and at first I said no because I hated swimming and wasn’t confident. But once I tried it, I fell in love. Growing up watching Michellie Jones and Emma Carney was hugely inspiring, and seeing Michellie still racing now reminds me that I can keep going for many years to come.
You were an Ambassador last season – what did you enjoy most about the experience?
I loved seeing how many people connected through the ambassadorship across the season. So many athletes caught up at races, supported each other and built new friendships. It was great to be part of something that brought people together across the State. Seeing people you know at each is always fun.
What races are on your calendar as you head toward the end of the year?
I’ve got a few races lined up, but the biggest one will be the World Sprint Duathlon Championships in Abu Dhabi this November. I’ll also be doing some club races and a few events to prep for Worlds.
You juggle a huge workload and family life – how do you make it all work?
As a mum to two teenage girls, I work full‑time across three different jobs. My schedule doesn’t change much, which actually helps me keep great structure each week.
My main job lets me start at 10am, so I can get the girls ready for school and fit in a second training session before work. My second job supports me with nutrition when I need it, and I finish at 3pm, which helps with school pickups and gives me time to book physio or massage. My third job is hectic, but the girls I work with do a 35‑minute express Pilates class with me at lunch – it’s perfect for strength and stretching.
On days I do two sessions, I’m up early to train and home before 7am. I’m lucky that all my training is within a 10‑minute drive from home, which makes a massive difference.
Tell us about the training community around you – it sounds like a big part of your success.
I’m so grateful for the women I train with. I have a running group 3–4 times a week, women I swim with twice a week, and a cycling group twice a week and sometimes we jump in with a men’s group too.
All these women have different goals, but we support each other. As a mum and an older athlete, it’s amazing to train with women who are also balancing work, kids and training. I’m self‑coached, and with the support of these women, it works.
I couldn’t do this sport without my beautiful girls. They’ve supported me every step of the way, and I love being a role model for them.
Do you have any long‑term or bucket‑list goals?
A bucket‑list race would definitely be Kona – but I need to do an Ironman first! I feel like it’s the hardest race ever, but it’s something I’d love to tick off one day.
We excited to have you back this season Erin, and look forward to sharing the journey across to Worlds, and to perhaps seeing a sneaky Ironman introduced on the way to that bucket-list goal.
