Unlike many other sports, triathlon is one that opens its arms to athletes of all ages and any ability, welcoming the entire family.
Tasmanian sisters Katherine Mills and Fiona de Wit both compete in triathlons and enjoy being able to participate together.
With Fiona making the start first in 2015, it wasn’t long before Katherine followed in her footsteps.
“My triathlon journey started off around 2018, after my sister Fiona did a couple of Super Sprint distance triathlons,” Katherine said.
“Fiona pointed out that I could run, I could ride a bike and that I knew how to swim so I could do triathlons too – and although the open water swimming has proved to be a challenge, I still enjoy racing.”
In August 2019, the sisters raced in the Sydney Marathon and have raced in many triathlons around Australia – and have found comfort as females in the sport.
“Becoming a part of the triathlon world as a woman has been a journey of self-discovery, confidence and resilience,” Katherine said.
“I’ve developed a strength not just because of the physical demands of swimming, biking, and running, but also mental toughness that I didn’t have before and that carries over in most other parts of my life.
“The perception that triathlon is only for elite athletes has never really bothered me as an age grouper.
“I’ve found triathlon to be an incredible opportunity to set personal goals, push my limits, and even represent my country.
“It’s shown me that high achievement isn’t just for professionals, it’s for anyone willing to show up and put in the work.
“The triathlon community has been incredibly supportive, and I’ve met some amazing friends along the way, and it’s made the journey even more meaningful.
“Triathlon is a great sport with so many opportunities to achieve, amazing goals, and fun.
“It can be tough to get started but definitely worth persevering with, as the journey can be very rewarding.”
“Having been part of the triathlon community for the past 10 years it has been amazing to see all the wonderful people that make huge commitments to organising and volunteering to make events happen,” Fiona said.
“It is impressive to realise the age of some of the competitors and to consider the possibilities of still being as competitive as them at the same age.
“I think triathlon is about completing an event, not where you finish.
“It is about your own improvement and experience and the people you meet along the way.”
