Michael Kimpton, a 70-year-old retiree and triathlete, has become an inspiring figure in the Whitsunday triathlon community.
His journey into triathlon started later in life, at the age of 64, when he decided to transform his retirement into a fulfilling and adventurous chapter.
“I thought retirement would be boring, sitting on the couch, doing a bit of fishing, and reading books,” Kimpton said.
“But then, my wife kicked me out of the kitchen, and I thought I needed something more.”
Originally from Melbourne, Michael moved to Airlie Beach in 2017.
With a background in surfing, he had always enjoyed an active lifestyle.
However, after relocating to the idyllic Whitsundays, Michael found himself looking for a new challenge.
“A neighbour across the road mentioned park run, and I thought, ‘What’s that?’” he said.
“I was 63 or 64, and I thought, ‘I’m not going to be able to run five kilometers. It’ll kill me!’, but after a bit of training, I completed my first park run, and I was hooked.”
From there, Michael’s passion for endurance events only continued to grow.
After completing his first sprint triathlon in 2017, he continued to push his limits, eventually completing a half Ironman in Cairns in 2019.
“I won my age group at the Cairns half Ironman,” Kimpton said.
“That qualified me for the 70.3 World Championships in Nice, France – that was a huge milestone for me.”
Michael’s determination didn’t stop there. He entered full Ironman events and earned spots to compete at the prestigious Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, in both 2022 and 2023.
Despite the challenges of age and the aftermath of a life-changing motorcycle accident in 1977, Michael’s spirit remained unbroken.
“I couldn’t even walk for a couple of years after that accident,” he said. “But I’m living the dream now.”
Michael’s involvement in triathlon extends beyond his personal achievements.
He is the current President of the Whitsunday Triathlon Club and has served as Race Director for the Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival.
In 2022, the festival faced a critical crisis, but Michael stepped in to lead a volunteer committee, securing sponsorships and ensuring the event’s survival.
“It was a tough time, with COVID disruptions and uncertainty,” he said.
“But we got through it, and in 2023, the event was a huge success, with Triathlon Queensland even recognising us with the ‘Club Initiative of the Year’ award.”
Being involved in the community aspect of triathlon has been deeply meaningful for Michael.
“Triathlon has such a strong sense of community,” Kimpton said.
“It’s not just about the race; it’s about the people you meet along the way.
“It has inspired me to give back and help others – we’re all in it together.”
For Michael, triathlon has not only been a personal journey but also a way to inspire others, and his advice to newcomers is simple but powerful.
“If you’re thinking about getting involved, just start,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter where you’re at. It’s not about being the fastest or the strongest; it’s about doing your best and having fun.”
Michael’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and the power of community.
As he continues to train for future events, including the World Multisport Championships in Spain, his story serves as an inspiration to anyone who thinks it’s too late to start something new.
For Michael Kimpton, triathlon is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life.
If you are interested in getting involved in triathlon, head to https://www.triathlon.org.au/ to find an event or club near you.
