Challenging conditions for hundreds of competitors at Kingscliff triathlon

THE Kingscliff triathlon attracted hundreds of people who braved the conditions through a wet weekend of competition.

Matthew Phillips won the open men’s Olympic distance after finishing runner-up in the event last year.

The Koa Sports Club competitor finished the race in a time of one hour, 11 minutes and 23 seconds.

Phillips was most impressive on the cycle, with a time of 42 minutes and 17 seconds.

The next closest competitor was Timothy Hornsey who completed the race two minutes and seven seconds behind, while Travis Coleman finished third.

Sunshine Coast Triathlon Club member Emma McInnes won the open women’s event.

She finished the race in one hour, 22 minutes and 34 seconds.

Maike Wolfe from Swift Multisport was just two seconds behind as runner-up with Zoe Wogan in third.

The Olympic Distance usually involves a 1150m swim, 40km ride and 10km run.

This year each leg of the race was shortened due to persistent rain and challenging conditions.

There was already a shortened swim course due to the tide and sand build up in the creek, which has been an ongoing issue.

It will be rectified in time for major races and events next year.

Organisers also introduced the Discover Tri, which was a family-friendly distance designed for both kids and parents to enjoy together.

Kids were able to compete by themselves or alongside a guardian in a triathlon (swim, ride and run) or aquathlon (swim, run).

The two-day event attracted triathlon clubs and gym groups from across NSW and south-east Queensland.

Most divisions were full weeks in advance with organisers unable to provide a waiting list for late entries.

People are encouraged to get their entries in early for the next

Kingscliff Triathlon which is set down for March 23.