Coffs Harbour’s Bring a Mate Triathlon Doubles Down on Fun, Friendship and Fundraising
The Coffs Harbour Jetty was buzzing with energy over the weekend at the second running of the club’s Bring a Mate Triathlon, which welcomed 90 participants, almost double last year’s event numbers! With approximately 60 newcomers to the sport, the event proved that triathlon can be as much about connection as competition.
Hosted by Coffs Harbour Triathlon Club, the event encouraged athletes to team up with a mate, give it a go, and enjoy both the challenge of racing and the community of doing an event with like-minded participants across a field that included all ages from teens, to young men and more mature athletes.
“This event is all about lowering the barrier to entry,” said Race Director Adrian Hawke. “We want people to feel welcome, supported, and excited to be part of something bigger than themselves. Last year’s inaugural race was a hit, but this year we’ve doubled the energy and the turnout. I was pretty overwhelmed with emotion to be honest.”
Race conditions couldn’t have been better: calm water, cloud cover to soften the sun, and a gentle breeze. “You couldn’t have asked for better,” Adrian shared. “With another free race on the calendar to help people try triathlon, I’m confident we’ll see some of these ‘mates’ return for another and hopefully become new members of our club.”
Beyond the finish line, the event carried deeper meaning. Funds raised supported local men’s mental health initiatives, with guest speakers sharing powerful messages about connection and wellbeing. “It was a really emotional day,” said Hawke. “Not just because of the fundraiser’s importance, but because of the overwhelming support from every club member. Our committee and membership are in an incredible place – strong, passionate, and united.”
For Hawke, the heart of the event lies in its impact. “If becoming part of a club and community can help support just one person on their mental health journey, this initiative will have been well worth it.”
