Darwin Triathlon Club holds annual progressive triathlon

Braving the heat and throwing on some Lycra, competitors young and old took part in the 2023 Progressive Triathlon at the weekend.

Competitors preparing to begin the swim at the Darwin Waterfront Lagoon. Picture: Darwin Triathlon Club.

Triathletes from across Darwin have pulled on their swimmers and clipped in their cleats as they raced in the progressive triathlon at the weekend.

Braving the weather and avoiding flailing arms in the swim, nearly 90 participants competed in the two-day challenge.

“Overall the turnout was fantastic,” Darwin Triathlon Club president Dan Hewitt said.

“We had around 85 competitors and 15 first timers, who either completed the whole event or an individual leg.

“We’ve run the event many times and it always goes very well.”

Unlike your conventional triathlon, the race was a progressive event designed to be fun and ”not just for the super elite” – swim (400/800m), ride (25km) and run (5km).

“We have people of all abilities and have built an amazing community,” Hewitt said.

“The event was a progressive triathlon which meant rather than doing the swim, ride and run consecutively, they were held on Friday night, Saturday morning and Saturday night respectively.

“It gives a great chance to socialise after each leg.

“It also provides the opportunity for participants to form a team.

“For instance, if you don’t have a bike you can share and if you don’t feel comfortable swimming alone you can complete the leg alongside a mate.”

The three legs, held at the Darwin Waterfront Lagoon, Hidden Valley racetrack and the Darwin Ski Club, enabled competitors to pick and choose their discipline and location, allowing inexperienced entrants to feel more comfortable.

And while the event was not strictly a competitive event, there were still winners at the race’s completion, with many who did not place expressing their eagerness to compete more regularly.

“We always have a lot of positive feedback for this one as it’s so social,” Hewitt said.

“We had a few new people comment they are keen to join – in January we will be offering discounted membership.

“The winners were Matt King and Kate Bouchier but this event is more social than anything. “We don’t award prizes and points are only given for participation.

“We run events all year round and offer many opportunities for people to come and try for a low cost.

“We have awards after the end of each season which runs in line with the financial year.”