The Devonport Triathlon has been the launchpad for Australia’s next generation of triathlon talent for four decades, and this year is no exception.
At just 17-years-old, Matthew Engesser is set to make his World Triathlon Para Series debut, as the iconic event celebrates its 40th anniversary.
“Competing at the international level feels both surreal and incredibly rewarding.” Engesser shared.
“Representing Australia is a tremendous honour, as it allows me to prove to myself that I am capable of performing at this level on the world stage.
“My primary objective is to enjoy the experience. Regardless of the outcome at the finish line, I always focus on identifying the positives in my performance.”
Since 2016, Devonport has served as the backdrop to the rise of Australian para triathlon, where legends like Paralympic gold medallists Lauren Parker and Katie Kelly first made their mark before reaching the pinnacle of the sport.
Now, the next generation is rising, with Engesser’s debut highlighting the growing depth of Australia’s para triathlon talent.
Leading the charge are 21-year-old Jack Howell and 17-year-old Grace Brimelow, two rising stars who kicked off breakout seasons in Devonport last year, claiming their maiden World Triathlon Para Series wins before making their Paralympic debuts.
Howell has been a key influence in Engesser’s development, with the teenager recognising the significant support from his Australian teammate.
“Jack Howell has been an invaluable mentor to me,” Engesser said.
“His consistent support and guidance have made a significant impact, as he always takes the time to check in and ensure everything is on track. His presence and encouragement have been instrumental in my development.
“I believe younger athletes are becoming stronger each year, making the competition increasingly intense.
“Being part of this emerging generation is exciting, as we are all on similar journeys, continuously pushing each other to new levels of performance.”
Joining Engesser (PTS4) in making his World Triathlon Para Series debut is Dave Miln (PTWC), who recently competed for Australia at the 2025 Invictus Games in Vancouver, where he also led the team as flag bearer.
Paris 2024 Paralympic Games champion Lauren Parker (PTWC) returns to Devonport with her sights set on another strong season, and is joined by fellow Paralympians Anu Francis (PTS2), Grace Brimelow (PTS4), Thomas Goodman (PTS2), Jeremy Peacock (PTS4), Liam Twomey (PTS4), Jack Howell (PTS5), David Bryant (PTS5), and Sam Harding (PTVI).
Hannah MacDougall (PTS4), Maggie Sandles (PTVI), and Caroline Baird (PTVI) also line up for Australia.
The Devonport Triathlon will celebrate its 40th anniversary by hosting the 2025 World Triathlon Para Series opener as part of a thrilling festival of triathlon from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 March.
In addition to the World Triathlon Para Series, Devonport will also host the Oceania Triathlon Championships, the Oceania Triathlon Junior Championships, and the Oceania Triathlon Junior Mixed Relay Championships
World Triathlon Para Series Devonport
Friday 14 March – 12:30pm AEDT
TriathlonLive.TV
Lauren Parker (PTWC)
Anu Francis (PTS2)
Grace Brimelow (PTS4)
Hannah MacDougall (PTS4)
Maggie Sandles (PTVI)
Caroline Baird (PTVI)
Dave Miln (PTWC)
Thomas Goodman (PTS2)
Jeremy Peacock (PTS4)
Liam Twomey (PTS4)
Matthew Engesser (PTS4)
Jack Howell (PTS5)
David Bryant (PTS5)
Sam Harding (PTVI)
