Involved in triathlon for three decades, Tasmanian local Danika Bumford first found her love for the sport while in the Royal Australian Navy and now her triathlon community spans across both the country and the world.
“I first became involved in triathlon at 18, while serving in the Royal Australian Navy,” Bumford said.
“Fitness was a part of everyday military life, and a friend encouraged me to buy my first road bike and enter a race.
“Having always been active and enjoying running, I quickly developed a passion for cycling and as an adult, I taught myself how to swim, and with my love for the water and the ocean triathlon became like the perfect fit.
“Over the past 30 years, I have participated in countless races across all distances, from sprint to Ironman.
“For me, triathlon is more than just a sport, it’s a lifestyle choice and I thoroughly enjoy the journey and the daily training as much as I do the races themselves.
“I am a member of Triathlon South in Hobart and the local triathlon community is incredibly welcoming and inclusive.
“There is always a familiar smiling face to greet you and a welcomed shout of encouragement while you’re on the course and across Tasmania, we share a close-knit community who support each other.
“I am also a member of The Cupcake Cartel Triathlon Team, which consists of athletes of all levels, spanning across the globe.
“We meet up in person at local, national and international races and connect and support each other online as well as cheer each other on race day – no ‘cupcake’ is ever left behind.
“The friendships and connections I have made through my clubs and the triathlon community in training and racing are valuable, they are my people, together we have a shared journey, drive and passion.”
With previous opportunities representing the green and gold, Danika has a lifetime of memories during her time in triathlon and can’t wait to add to these in Wollongong.
“There have been so many highlights and cherished memories over the past three decades that it’s difficult to choose just one,” she said.
“I’ve had the privilege of representing Australia three times in international events in the USA, New Zealand, and the Gold Coast and I’ve also raced in numerous events across the country, including my home state of Tasmania.
“While I’ve had the honour of receiving medals and awards, the moments that stand out the most are those spent with the people who’ve supported me and shared my journey.
“The sight of my family cheering me on from the sidelines, or receiving messages of encouragement, as well as the camaraderie and banter shared with friends during training and races, are memories I hold close.
“To represent Australia in a home World Championships fills me with an immense pride and honour to stand on the start line representing my country on home soil in front of a home crowd.
“For me it is the ultimate reward for months of consistent hard training to be selected to represent your country.
“I have been training consistently hard with the guidance of my coach who keeps me accountable with the World Championships as my goal.
“It has been a push to remain focused whilst juggling 24/7 shift work as a Paramedic, family life and their needs, running our own small business and training through a long, cold, dark Tasmanian winter.
“I have had to stay motivated and focused and am grateful for my husband’s support.
“I am excited to be immersed in the electric atmosphere leading up to my race and to have the support of a home crowd uplifting me and cheering me on in my event, it is an amazing feeling.
“I am also really looking forward to reconnecting with friends from across Australia and motivating them from the sidelines when I watch their races.”
The 2025 World Triathlon Championships will take place in Wollongong, Australia from 15 – 19 October 2025.
