The Goulburn Aquatic Centre became a hive of activity last Tuesday night as the Triathlon Club recommenced it’s Aquathon Competition after a lengthy COVID-19 enforced hiatus. In what must be a record for the customary Melbourne Cup day season opener, 48 competitors took to the water and the leafy paths of Victoria Park, not for championship points but so that handicaps can be set ensuring close finishes once competition kicks off next Tuesday.
Most racers kept a little up their sleeves with the aim of a better starting position but even restraint can’t hide who the ones to beat are going to be.
Amongst the Novices taking part on the 100m/2km course, young Oscar and Charlie Moss look to be the leading males with Jamie Miles not far behind. Newcomer Annabel Feld also set a good pace for the ladies.
In the Open 1 Sprint Distance event (200m/4km) Alex Skeffington and Cody Poetsch set the pace for the men with Violet Ottley and Danielle Coleman standing out for the ladies.
In the Open 2 Mid distance event (400m/4km) Robbie Dorsett, Jason Pattison and Damien Ottley set the early tone for the men. In the ladies, Nadine Maroney and Shiralee Cousins look set to resume their close rivalry this season. Newcomer Danielle Connell was also impressive , breaking through the 30 minute barrier at her first attempt.
Lastly, the long distance event (600m/6km) looks to be a battle between Kurt Warn and Isaac Hogan with both completing the 6km run in a brisk 24minutes. Olivia Stutchbury struck the first blow in the ladies race beating home club legend Lori McWhirter.
Racing will continue 6:00pm every Tuesday night at the Aquatic Centre and memberships can be purchased during opening hours at the Pool Office in Deccan St. The cost to take part in Aquathon equates to just $2.00 over normal pool entry. Memberships can be bought for the season (19 weeks) or in 10 or 5 week lots. All abilities are catered for with the primary focus for the club being community and friendly competition.
