After a week of inclement weather and particularly heavy rain on the night of Saturday , October 13 – making organisers nervous – the heavens were kind on the morning of Sunday, October 14 allowing the Forster Tri Club to kick off the new season with its first full triathlon.

And what a morning it was.

What better way is there to start Sunday than with a dip in the chilly waters of Forster Keys?

For those who had perhaps neglected their swim training over winter, the cool waters gave a much appreciated speed boost; swim fast or freeze.

Luckily the road had dried to a respectable racing condition for skinny road tyres, and the grass had just enough spring underfoot to make running an almost pleasant experience.

The club had an impressive turn out for race number one, particularly from the junior contingent.

The kids kicked things off, racing first, with distances varied to suit all ages, abilities and levels of interest.

Congratulations to all who gave it a go.

Certified ironman and former club president, Pete Camilleri was thrilled to welcome the next generation to his sport of choice.

Pete accompanied his grandchildren Freddie and Isabelle across the finish line for the first time while little Max cheered on from the sidelines with grandma.

Plenty of fresh faces participated in both the junior and open races with the club welcoming newcomers Danielle Lewis, Samantha Doust, Amanda Stanners, Rob Mellor and Corey Duncan.

New parents, Katie and Ryan Oxenford were back on course, producing not only amazing personal results but bringing baby Ella around with them on the run. 

Who knew you could triathlon with a pram in tow?

These two made it look far too easy.

The usual culprits dominated the senior race – Beau Harper had been training hard over winter, and Simon Gay made his return to club racing and smashed out some impressive times, closely followed by Fletcher Pearce.

A special mention goes out to Thomas Worth, Leighton Hopper and Ethan Fitzhardinge who are all racing amongst the seniors in the club’s E-grade. 

The next club event is the Kids All Abilities Triathlon, which will be held on November 4, at Forster YMCA.

Children of all ages and abilities are encouraged to go along and try a tri. 

There is no timing in the event, and each child who completes the course will receive a finisher’s hat and voucher, a sausage sandwich, an ice block and a drink. 

Check out the club’s Facebook for more information.