This week we reintroduce NSW Triathlon Ambassador Troy Ridgley, from Maitland Tri Club. There’s a tall chance you may have spotted him at a race of five last season and we’re excited to welcome him back for another season of fun, friendship and very loud cheering!
For those who don’t know you, can you introduce yourself to our tri community.
I’m Troy Ridgley from Maitland Tri Club. I’m a bit taller than most, so if you don’t spot me in a crowd, you’ll probably hear me instead. I did my first triathlon with Maitland in 2021 and haven’t looked back.
What was your favourite part of being an Ambassador last season?
Bringing energy to newcomers and meeting so many passionate people already immersed in swim/bike/run. Co‑hosting the Sydney Triathlon Pink tips session, taking over the NSW Tri socials at Western Sydney 70.3 with fellow ambassador Emma Tucker, and bringing the noise at the Wollongong World Championships were standout moments.
What goals did you set last season, and how did they go?
An early‑season injury forced a reset. Instead of chasing performance, I focused on balance, fun, and supporting others. Smiling, racing teams to get people involved, and cheering loudly from the sidelines became the priority and absolutely felt like “mission accomplished.”
What didn’t go to plan, and what’s the mindset for this season?
A complicated Achilles injury wasn’t part of the plan and definitely dented the spirits. But as a shift‑working husband and father of three, balance is always a challenge. This season isn’t about revenge it’s about finding that sweet spot between life, training, and enjoying the sport. Expect plenty of “Finish Lines, NOT Finish Times,” plus a whole lot of laughter.
Share a special highlight from your triathlon journey so far
A big highlight was racing a Maitland Tri Club event as a team with my daughter while injured, and seeing my other kids jump into events “just like Dad.”
On a personal note, it’s the people I’ve met, many of those have achieved things they never thought possible, until they did it and it reminds me of what is probably my own proudest moment – in May 2023. After months of hard work, race day went sideways early, and I had to choose between quitting, which is something I felt I always did, or piecing things back together and pushing on. That day taught me the power of the mind, the strength of the triathlon community, and that you really can do anything you set your mind to.
What advice would you give someone thinking about trying triathlon?
Jump. Take the leap. Reach out to your local club, find some friends, or start with a team event. Don’t leave it as a “what if.” There’s nothing like crossing that finish line and realising what you’ve achieved – and who cheered you there. If you’re in the Hunter Valley, reach out and I’ll happily help.
Where will we see you racing this season?
I’ll be swimming and riding in a 70.3 team at Port Macquarie, sporting fancy socks and the floral Bottle.It suit – a mental health movement born in triathlon. Then I’ll be everywhere on the run course helping bring athletes home to hear Pete Murray say those magic four words.
You’ll also spot me at:
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Maitland, Newcastle, Singleton and Tomaree club races as MTC chases the Hunter Interclub Trophy
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Hell of the West (add it to your bucket list)
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Club Championships in Forster (don’t miss this one)
