Swim. Bike. Gold!
At the 2025 Age Group World Championships in Wollongong, Hannah Gibson delivered a performance defined by grit, focus, and absolute commitment – earning herself the gold medal in the Female 25–29 Aquabike category and proudly representing her State on home soil.
When asked what she thought was the key to being in winning form for Worlds, Hannah shared that success wasn’t about perfection, but rather about consistency and trust. “It wasn’t about chasing perfection but about showing up every day and ticking off the little things that make a big difference on race day.”
Unable to run due to injury, she doubled down on building strength in the swim and bike, backing herself and the process. That disciplined block of training became the foundation of her world‑class performance.
Race Week Highlights
Beyond the medal, Hannah said her heart was full, thanks to the people around her.
“Seeing so many familiar faces at the opening ceremony, the expo and throughout the week was definitely a highlight.”
Friends from across Australia and around the world, plus the support of her mum and best friend, made racing in Wollongong feel as much a celebration as a competition.
Rituals and Routines for Race‑Day Magic
Every champion, it seems, has a special ritual or routine. Hannah’s are equal parts practical and personal:
- Black coffee to start the morning
- Toast with peanut butter, honey and banana pre-race fuel
- A beetroot shot for good measure
- A hype‑up track: “Golden” by Demon Hunters
- Visualising transitions while setting up her bike to lock into race mode
It’s a ritual that grounds her, sharpens her focus, and sets the tone for the effort ahead.
As with each of our Gold Medalists profiled we asked Hannah her three words to sum up the experience.
Adapt. Focus. Push.
While injury forced Hannah to redirect her energy into the Aquabike, she embraced it fully. And also acknowledged the people behind the performance with this shout out:
“Huge thanks to my coach Phil, my training partners and my sponsors for their amazing support. Races like Wollongong make all the early mornings and long sessions so worth it.”
With her sights now set on an exciting 2026 season, this world title is just the beginning.
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