Conquest and Nevill win Barwon Heads Triathlon

MORE than 800 participants put their all-round athletic capabilities to the test on Sunday (February 16) in the annual 13th Beach Health Services Barwon Heads Triathlon.

It was a familiar top three in the male category. Winner Adam Conquest along with Kirby Bourke and Anthony Goss all took to the steps of the podium last year, albeit in a different order.

For Torquay triathlete Conquest, it was his second time on the top tier.

He said there was something unique about the race.

“I love this event and the sense of community it creates. I’ve been competing in triathlons for over 20 years now, this race and result holds something special for me.

“It is fantastic to see so many people competing for the first time and getting a real sense of achievement and enjoyment from the event.”

The female category saw Penny Nevill narrowly defeat 2018 winner Catherine Allison.

Tahlee Van Roosmalen rounded out the top three, while simultaneously taking victory in the female 15-19 age category.

The 14-kilometre ride proved decisive for Conquest and Nevill, as they were both the quickest peddlers in their categories.

Relatively short in nature, and with friendly swimming conditions, there were a lot of participants who were racing for their first time.

The race also makes the claim of being the state’s most picturesque triathlon, taking participants down the Barwon River, up and back 13th Beach Road and then across the Barwon Heads footbridge.