December 2024
Dear Triathlon members, supporters and sponsors,
As we draw closer to Christmas, and the year is winding down, it’s a good time to look back on what the 2024-2025 triathlon season has delivered so far.
Early this year, we sent a team to the Africa Games in Ghana, consisting of Andie Kuipers, Lorna Doorman, Callum Smith, and Rohnan Nicholson. These athletes represented us well, with Andie finishing 5th, Lorna 6th, Callum 13th, and Rohnan 18th. Notably, they competed against the continent’s elite athletes. Additionally, four of our technical officials contributed to the successful running of the event.
The National Duathlon Championships, held at Donnybrook in September, provided the perfect opportunity to gauge our athletes’ winter training. As expected, the cyclists pushed our triathletes to their limits. However, we were thrilled to see our team members hold their own. Special congratulations to Shine Doko and Laura O’Donoghue on their impressive wins.
Our first event at Mt Pleasant was the annual Pink Day Triathlon, a wonderful community event supporting Breast Cancer Awareness and the Cancer Centre. We’re grateful to Debi Jeans and her team for organizing such a great event. Thanks to everyone who dressed up and donated, helping us raise $1155.00.
The Ryan Collett Memorial Triathlon at Springvale School is a special event honoring the memory of our late member, Ryan Collett. This year’s race was another highlight, featuring fast, technical courses and a fantastic atmosphere. Thanks to Paul Martin and the Springvale team for organizing such a great event.
We braved the scorching heat at Smallbridge Dam in Penhalonga earlier this month. Despite the low water levels, the breathtaking setting, warm water, and well-organized event made it all worthwhile. Thanks to Shingi Pswarayi and the Draughtsman team for ensuring a smooth running event and keeping us well-fed and hydrated. If you haven’t been, you’re missing out!
I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone who works tirelessly behind the scenes to make these events a reality. The riggers, technical officials, and volunteers, your hard work and commitment ensure the smooth running of each event. Without your support, triathlon wouldn’t be the same. Thank you for everything.
We’re incredibly grateful to our season and Troutbeck sponsors. Your support is instrumental in making our events possible, and we couldn’t do it without your generosity Thank you for believing in us.
Get ready to kick off 2025 with a bang! Join us on January 12th at Luna Road for a fun-filled event. Dust off your bike and running shoes, and let’s burn off those holiday treats!
Mark your calendars for March 8th! Our flagship event, the 2025 Bonaqua Africa Triathlon Cup & Multisport Festival, will be held at the stunning Troutbeck Inn Resort. Zimbabwe will be proudly represented in the Africa Triathlon Cup and Africa Triathlon Junior Cup, as well as the National Triathlon Championships. In addition to these prestigious events, there will be a wide range of non-championship races for all ages and abilities, including triathlon, aquathlon, aqua-bike, duathlon, MTB, off-road triathlon, open water swimming, and the exciting Troutbeck Trail Run.
We hope you all have a fantastic Christmas break. As you enjoy the festive season, remember to stay active and healthy. Every mince pie you eat comes with a 1km run! Stay fit and safe.
Yours in sport
ROSS O’DONOGHUE
President
