New year, new Triathlon goals

Warragul triathletes took the first opportunity of the year to run, ride and swim around town.

Dozens competed in the Wild Dog Triathlon Club’s friendly race on Saturday, as many prepare for big events in the new year.

The longest senior races consist of a 500m swim, 18km ride, and 5km run.

Damian Smith took out the men’s category with a time of 57 minutes and 2 seconds. Steph Andreata won the women’s event at 1 hour and 29 minutes.

Last year, Smith qualified for the Half Ironman World Championship but couldn’t attend due to COVID restrictions. Andreata is training for the Melbourne half distance Ironman this year.

Others were training for the 2XU series in Port Phillip bay, as locals look to beat personal bests in 2022.

Club president Jason Osborne said the Wild Dog Club races were a great way for triathletes to train for events.

“A lot of athletes use our triathlons as a training exercise to prepare them to race in that [2XU] series, the two athletes who will be doing that are actually podium finishers,” he said.

The Wild Dog Triathlon Club will hold races throughout Summer until the end of March, with competitors having the option to race various lengths.

The club’s encouraging everyone to sign up, with entry costing $5 for seniors and $2.50 for juniors.