In the Northern Territory, the Katherine Multisport Club organise and run multisport races in and around the Katherine community, offering something for everyone.
These events include Mountain Bike races, Trail Runs, Mothers Day running festival, Tindal Triathlon and our signature race “The Katherine Ultra Challenge”
2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the “Katherine Ultra Challenge” a race held at the spectacular Nitmiluk National Park, which takes individuals or teams of up to 6 competitors through a gruelling 2km swim – 4.5km kayak – 8km trail run – 40km road bike – 18km mtb – 10km trail run.
President of the Katherine Multisport Club Jay Pattison, was originally from South Australia and found his passion for triathlon in Adelaide in 2000, before a move to Noosa in 2003 saw his triathlon opportunities expand.
But it was his most recent relocation to Katherine that has allowed Jay to become heavily involved with the Katherine Multisport Club and all the incredible experiences they provide.
“Having moved to Katherine, Northern Territory at the beginning of 2023 I was thrilled to find that there was an active Multisport Club in the community,” Pattison said.
“The Katherine Multisport Club host a number of races through the dry season with the highlight of the year being the Katherine Ultra Challenge – held on the long weekend in August.
“This year is the 25th anniversary of the Ultra Challenge and it promises to be the best edition yet.
“From humble beginnings where a few keen locals would kayak, run, swim and ride in a point to point style race that went down along the crocodile infested Katherine river – athletes were made of different stuff back then.
“There have been a number of changes to the course over the years due to logistical and safety reasons to the point where the race is now held primarily within the spectacular Nitmiluk National Park.
“Last year’s Ultra Challenge saw over 270 competitors and their support crew converge on Nitmiluk NP for the weekend.
“It was amazing, so much so that it won community event of the year for the Katherine region.
“There are a number of components that make the Katherine Ultra Challenge a must-do race.
“From the moment you board the ferry to head up to the swim start in the second gorge you know it is going to be a special day.
“It’s pitch black and the place is filled with an energy that I haven’t experienced anywhere else.
“As the swimmers head off at sunrise for their 2km swim before transitioning to the 4.5km kayak the gorge just comes alive and words cannot describe the scenery.
“Following the kayak there is an 8km trail run up on the escarpment before a 40km road bike, an 18km mountain bike ride back up the escarpment and a 10km trail run to finish.
“The Ultra Challenge is capped at 100 starters (swimmers) consisting mostly of teams.
“Typically around 70% of the field are teams making it a very social day for all but the hardcore individuals who tend to thrive on the challenge.
“Highlights for me would have to be the scenery, the challenge, the outback hospitality and the amazing atmosphere.”
The Katherine Multisport Club is a small crew of extremely passionate individuals who love adventure and love showing off the Katherine countryside, embodying the triathlon community spirit.
“Over the years the triathlon community has given me life long friends, the motivation to keep moving and the opportunity to get involved in whatever community I happen to be living in.
“I would strongly encourage anyone thinking about getting involved in triathlon to remember you don’t need to be an elite athlete.
“There are a number of opportunities at your local club from competing individually, or competing as part of a team, to water safety or timing and setting up / packing up transitions.
“Just remember that 99% of triathletes are not elite individuals, they are typically amazing humans who are just out trying to be their best – whatever that may look like to them personally.”
2025 promises to be the best Ultra Challenge yet and the club will have some 25th anniversary surprises in store.
Competitor numbers are capped and the event will sell out so if anyone is keen to get involved – either solo or as part of a team – they keep an eye on the club’s socials and website to secure their entry.
If you are interested in getting involved in triathlon, head to https://www.triathlon.org.au/ to find an event or club near you.
