Living in a country town, Kate Bourchier was on the lookout for a local sport that she could get involved with.
Meeting a triathlete while swimming at the local pool, Kate realised her love for swimming and riding bikes would be the perfect fit for triathlons – and since joining in 2005, she hasn’t looked back since.
Reflecting on her time in triathlon so far, Kate’s favourite places to race are those events where she is surrounded by family.
“During my time, Cairns has been a favourite place to race, as well as the Kona Ironman in 2012 and 2019 were particular favourites,” Bourchier said.
“The beautiful places you get to visit are also a highlight of the sport, and in terms of racing Kona Ironman in 2012 and 2019 were particular favourites.
“My first time competing in the Kona was in 2012, and my partner and parents came to support which was incredible.
“It is such a beautiful place and people, and the town is just swamped with the Ironman ‘family’, it creates such a buzz.
“The toughness of the race adds to the satisfaction when you complete it.”
Having raced in The Vinfast Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Taupo, New Zealand over the weekend, Kate was the highest placed NT athlete coming 6th in her 45-49 Age Group.
Following this success, she is already looking ahead to what her 2025 season will hold.
“I hadn’t raced at Taupo before, but I had actually qualified for the event back in 2019 but due to Covid the race couldn’t occur,” she said.
“So I’ve enjoyed having it as a long term goal, and my preparations went really smoothly.
“Looking at 2025, I always aim to do as many of the local races as I can.
“Darwin Triathlon Club holds duathlons or aquathons, or sometimes mountain bikes are used.
“I’d also like to do an Ironman next year as the last time I competed in was Kona 2019.”
Despite thoroughly enjoying the competitive side of triathlons, it is the community of like-minded people that the sport creates which Kate enjoys the most.
“A highlight has been all the people you get to meet that make triathlon special, both on and off the course,” she said.
“Not just those that you know, but also complete strangers are cheering you on, and thousands of volunteers giving up their time.
“And competition-wise, it’s usually friendly and supportive, we’re racing, but you have to be able to enjoy it at the same time.
“Being a part of the triathlon community means that you always have people in your corner.
“Whether you see them every day or week, or whether they support you with training, mentally or socially.
“And those you don’t see each week, but are in constant contact, also provide so much support.
“And then when you travel, you’ll always see people you know, while also meeting more people to add to your community.”
To anyone looking to make a start in triathlon themselves, Kate says to get in and give it a go, and don’t be afraid to ask questions while you’re learning.
“Just have a go,” she said.
“More importantly, ask questions, people are so keen to help and share with you.
“The hardest thing I think when you start is working out what you do in transition – what to wear, what equipment you need, what to eat and drink.
“So just ask, give it a go, and you’ll work out what works for you.”
If you are interested in getting involved in triathlon, head to https://www.triathlon.org.au/ to find an event or club near you.
