Tweed Enduro attracts top names

PROFESSIONAL triathletes were pushed to the limit as hundreds of competitors turned out for the annual Tweed Enduro event at Pottsville.

It was a long-distance race that comprised a 1.9km swim, 90km cycle and 21.1km run.

Ballina coach and professional triathlete Tim Van Berkel finished runner-up behind Gold Coast competitor Jack Sosinski.

It was the first time Van Berkel has competed in the event, using it as part of his training for the world championships in New Zealand next month. The race saw standout performances from members of triathlon clubs across south-east Queensland, with a healthy mix of locals crossing the finish line.

Sosinski finished the race in three hours, 42 minutes and 44 seconds, just under six minutes clear after leading the swim and cycle legs.

Sunshine Coast Triathlon Academy member Emily Donker dominated the women’s event, finishing just over 10 minutes clear of her closest rival.

She competes on the world stage and came fifth in an ironwoman event in Malaysia in October.

The top performers have now qualified for the World Triathlon Championships at Wollongong later in the year.

The Tweed Enduro is part of a popular group of events run by NX Sports.

It is attracting hundreds of competitors to similar triathlon and ocean swim events at Byron Bay, Kingscliff and Yamba.

“We are here to inspire sporting passion and community wellbeing in stunning destinations,” race director Mike Crawley said.

“Our future is packed with new events and existing favourites.”

Since its inception in 2015, the Tweed Enduro has injected millions into the local economy.

The Cabarita Surf Life Saving Club, Pottsville Beach Neighbourhood Centre, Murwillumbah Venturer Scouts and local men’s shed have been beneficiaries.

It hopes to raise another $7000 for the Tweed Coast Raiders junior rugby league and Pottsville Cricket Club this year.

The next NX Sports event is the Kingscliff Triathlon, which will be held on Sunday, March 23.

Entries are open and can be submitted at kingsclifftri.org.