Catani Gardens is set to transform into a hub of excitement as the Australian Age Group Sprint Championships kick off at Race 3 of the 2XU Triathlon Series in St Kilda on Sunday 14 January.
Nestled along Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay, athletes will tackle a fast and flat course, a 750m swim, 26.7km bike, and 5km run. AusTriathlon members will gear up to battle down bayside suburbs, each vying for the chance to secure national silverware at the first opportunity of the year.
The Sprint Championships serve as the first of ten Australia Championships for Age Group competitors in 2024.
The 2XU Triathlon Series is Victoria’s premier and most popular triathlon series. The six race series caters for beginner participants to elite athletes.
Set along Melbourne’s stunning Port Phillip Bay, the 2XU Triathlon Series provides a platform for individuals to accomplish their triathlon goals with multiple distances: Olympic, Sprint, Fun, Aquabike and Kids.
Jordan O’Neill is the Director of O2 Events, the management company responsible for delivering the 2XU Triathlon Series. He says Race 3 is the ideal location for hosting an Australian Championship.
“Race 3 is the ideal location for hosting an Australian Championship event.” O’Neill said.
“Participants pass some of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks whilst racing, which appeals to athletes here in Victoria and interstate.
“Course highlights include swimming in St Kilda pier, cycling along the scenic Beach Road, and running along the St Kilda foreshore. Participants report the atmosphere of racing at St Kilda is like no other race.”
O’Neill shared insights and advice for participants taking on the fast and flat course in St Kilda.
“The swim within the protected area of the St Kilda beach offers an excellent opportunity for participants to achieve a personal best.” O’Neill shared.
“Successfully executing strategic moves during the run can be challenging. We suggest putting the hard yards in during the two-lap bike leg to strategically position yourself before dismounting the bike.”
Sunday’s race is also an Australian Age Group Triathlon Team National Selection Event for the 2024 World Triathlon Championships in Malaga.
Find out more about Australian Age Group Teams including Selection Policies at triathlon.org.au
