Behind the races and medals of triathlons, are people like Tim Smith, who strive to generate passion, commitment and a love for the sport in the next generation of competitors.
Race Director of the Schools Triathlon Challenge, Tim first developed the event as a way to help foster the excitement and camaraderie that the sport could bring to people.
“The Schools Triathlon Challenge was an idea I wanted to start to get students active and moving,” Smith said.
“It also was to help combat the increase of screen time and also help students experience the sport of triathlon.
“It was also my way of making a difference, so I spent 18 months getting the idea out there.
“The first year in 2008 we had 1861 students from grade 3-12 over 2 days, which was absolutely massive, the largest participation triathlon in Tasmania ever.
“After that first year, I continued on with the event myself and it has grown every single year.
“Now we see over 6000 students participating in the Schools Triathlon Challenge Events across the state in Devonport and Hobart each year.
“It really is an incredible event, it connects with students and I can see the good it’s doing, it’s something I am extremely proud of.
“I really have put my heart and soul into this event.”
With the event dedicated to creating long-lasting positive memories, Tim shared that his own highlight of the event is being able to feel the buzz of excitement amongst the students.
“The highlight is seeing students happily engaged in physical activity, the energy level and smiles on peoples faces, the buzz on race day is huge for everyone,” he said.
“It really has to be seen to be believed.
“I love watching how much everyone supports and encourages each other, whether they are first, 100th or last does not matter.
“The students now understand that it’s about taking on the challenge and completing it, turn up and however fast or slow you are doesn’t matter, getting to the finish line is all that matters and with thousands of people on site supporting and full school teams, every student feels like a champion.
“The STC motto is ‘Creating Healthy Bodies and Healthy Minds One Step at a Time’ and this holds true for all of us.
“Continue to challenge yourself and embrace the lifestyle, friendships and opportunities that come with triathlon, it’s not just a sport, it really is a way of life.”
As Tim reflected on his time involved with triathlon, it is the people and community within the sport that make up his fondest memories.
“Definitely all the people, I have made so many lifelong friends from triathlon,” Smith said.
“Triathlon really has become a defining part of my life and continues to be and it has definitely changed and evolved over time.
“Obviously, initially it was all about training, racing, hanging out with mates, being super fit and as fast as I could be.
“In time though it has become more about race directing and providing a great experience for kids so that hopefully they learn that being physically active, establishing healthy habits, continuing to challenge yourself and spending quality time with your friends is a great way of life.
“Triathlon is a great sport for all of those things.”
For anyone who is thinking about getting involved in triathlon, Tim urges you not to let the fear of ‘what if’s’ hold you back from giving it a go.
“Get in and have a go, it can really be a life changing sport,” he said.
“The fear of all the “what if’s” and the anxiety from that is what usually holds people back.
“I would say if you can involve your friends and share the experience it’s probably a great way to overcome some of that initial worry and once you turn up and have a go you won’t look back.”
If you are interested in getting involved in triathlon, head to https://www.triathlon.org.au/ to find an event or club near you.
