25 years of service to triathlon is no easy feat in fact for Gai Webster it’s a badge of honour. Recognised at the ACT Awards for her ongoing commitment to the sport as a Technical Official (TO), Webster reflected on her journey and how she first got involved in triathlon.
Having spent years competing as a triathlete, Webster was eager to try her hand in something new, becoming a Level 1 Official (LTO) in the 1999-2000 season. And from that moment her passion for the sport only grew.
“At the Sydney 2000 Olympics I was a Sports Specific volunteer for marathon and triathlon. I had the privilege to be at the finish line for triathlon while working with timing.”
“I saw and spoke with a number of the Technical Officials (some which I knew) and that planted the thought in my mind to maybe also join that elite team one day at an event.”
With the lure of joining the elite environment dangled in front of her and eager to leave her mark on the triathlon community, another opportunity arose – one that Webster took with both hands – stepping in to take over as the co-ordinator of the ACT TO contingent.
“The ACT Official numbers ebb and flow depending on work commitments. A number of officials or a family member are in the Armed Services so when a posting happens the whole family can go as well,” Webster explained.
Webster has travelled far and wide to appease her TO responsibilities, noting that work and play can co-exist.
“I love that triathlon is represented Australia wide and you can travel interstate to officiate. You can also make a holiday around events which my husband and I have done a few times.”
“I’ve officiated at numerous events in a variety of roles (the humble Official to the Technical Delegate) in Tassie, Vic, SA, NSW, Qld and, of course, ACT.
The representation doesn’t just cover AusTriathlon but so too World Triathlon, with Webster holding down a variety of roles such as ‘Chief of a Section, Head Referee and Technical Delegate’ across her 25-year tenure.
And for anyone considering becoming a Technical Official, she’s got one simple phrase “just do it!”
“It is a great way to see different parts of Australia and meet new Officials who will become friends, whether they are also officiating or racing at the event. A friendly face can make your day.”
Beyond the travel and camaraderie, officiating offers a chance to give back to the sport, be part of the action on race day, and help create a fair and safe environment for all participants. It also opens the door to personal development, learning new skills, and building connections within the triathlon community.
For those with aspirations of officiating on the world stage, she encourages officials to put themselves forward and embrace opportunities as they arise.
“If you aspire to officiate at a World Tri event, then make yourself available and nominate to go through AusTriathlon. You don’t have to have the Level 1 qualifications to start with as you are already an AusTri Official. When the next World Tri Level 1 course is on, then you can apply, and I may see you there as I am also a Facilitator for World Tri courses.”
Her journey is a testament to the many paths that officiating can open. From supporting local events to officiating at international competitions, Webster’s experience highlights the important role Technical Officials play in the sport and the rewarding community that comes with it.
