Queensland’s Aspen Anderson and Tasmania’s Jack Woodberry claimed the coveted titles of Australian Junior Champions at the 2023 Super Sprint Race Weekend held at the Gold Coast Performance Center.
Australia’s top youth and junior athletes showcased their exceptional talents at the recent Super Sprint Race Weekend held at the Gold Coast Performance Center.
Over four thrilling days, competitors engaged in a variety of multisport events, including the Le Mans race, Aquathlon, Mixed Relay, and the highly anticipated Super Sprint Finals on Sunday.
Anderson capped off an incredible year with victory in the Australian Junior Super Sprint Championships, her second time being crowned Australian Junior Champion
The 17-year-old had already earned dual gold medals at August’s Commonwealth Youth Games, making her win at the Super Sprint Race Weekend the cherry on top of an already remarkable year.
She now joins Ashleigh Gentle as the only dual Australian Junior Champion – a remarkable achievement for the rising star.
“I’m glad I achieved what I set out to do.” Anderson said.
“Super Sprint Race Weekend is always a fun event, and I always look forward to competing against fellow juniors who share the same passion.”
“The atmosphere for the final was electric and the support from everyone including my family, friends and coaches was awesome.”
“A big shoutout to everyone who toughed it out there; you should all be super proud of your efforts.”
The podium was bathed in Maroon with Anderson’s Queensland teammates Madison Turner and Caitlyn Garrett claiming second and third place, respectively.
The trio’s outstanding performances showcases the depth of talent emerging from the Queensland triathlon scene.
“Sharing the podium with fellow Queenslanders couldn’t have been a better result.” Anderson said.
“My highlight this weekend was definitely claiming a one-two podium with my training partner and bestie Maddy Turner.”
Woodberry follows in the footsteps of fellow Tasmanian Jake Birtwhistle as Australian Junior Champion.
The Tokyo 2020 Olympian added his voice to the chorus of congratulations on AusTriathlon’s post announcing Woodberry, and Anderson, as the Australian Junior Champions.
‘#Brisbane2032 🥇’, Birtwhistle’s commented, serving as both a congratulatory nod to their impressive achievements and a subtle hint at the exciting possibility of seeing them on the grand stage of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games.
Woodberry says its an amazing feeling to be etched into the list of winners that includes Birtwhistle.
“It feels incredible to win this prestigious title.” Woodberry said.
“It’s an amazing feeling and I cannot believe my name has been added to that list. What an incredible list to be a part of.
“I have worked extremely hard to get into the position that enabled me to win the title. It is both exciting and overwhelming.”
The 15-year-old shared his highlights from a huge four days of racing and his goals to represent his country.
“Getting to race at this great venue with so many other talented athletes and making friends and connections with other great competitors were the highlights for me.”
“My goals are to continue to compete nationally, with a view to one day travelling overseas to compete and to represent my country would be a dream come true.”
Woodberry shared the podium with Queensland’s Fletcher Medway and Hayden Small, who claimed second and third place.
In the Youth Women’s Final, Leila Alexander clinched the top spot and the title of 2023 Australian Youth Champion.
Queensland continued its strong representation with Elke Rayward claiming silver, and Charlotte Hussein from New South Wales securing the bronze
In a fiercely contested Youth Men’s Final, Western Australia’s Luke Williams secured the gold, with silver and bronze going to Queensland’s Lucas Soegaard and Koby Read.
