The New Zealand team at the International Triathlon Union World Long Distance Championships in Perth stunned the rest of the world with a medal haul of thirteen, including an incredible five gold medals – more than the USA and the British could lay claim to, including a clean sweep by the North Harbour Triathlon Club in the men’s 45 to 49 age group.
In the very hot and yet windy conditions, the Kiwi team of 123 age groupers performed with distinction to earn their collection of medals, including all three in the men’s 45 to 49 age category with Walter Thorburn, Stephen Farrell and Greg Ball blacking out the podium. Incredibly not only are they all Kiwis, but all three are from the North Harbour Tri Club, surely a unique achievement in the sport worldwide, let alone for a club in New Zealand.
Not surprisingly patriotism got the better of the men during this medal ceremony, with an emotional haka performed by the New Zealand men, much to the delight of the other Kiwis and the many international competitors and spectators watching.
Aside from a number of competitors needing medical attention beyond the finish line, by and large the Kiwis got through the day unscathed, although Sue Gaplin typified the Kiwi attitude on the day when she crashed heavily at the turn around on the bike, only to dust herself off and complete the race with lots of gravel rash to remind her of the fall.
Other gold medals were won by Annika Edmondson (women 20-24), Mark Bowstead (men 20-24), Rob Creasy (men 25-29) and Shane Vincent (men 35-39).
ITU World Long Distance Triathlon Championships
Perth, Australia
NZ Age Group Medalists
F20 -24
Annika Edmondson Hawkes Bay Gold
Anna Lorimer Auckland Bronze
M20-24
Mark Bowstead Auckland Gold
F 25-29
Michelle Simpson North Harbour Silver
M 25 -29
Rob Creasy Christchurch Gold
F 30 -34
Belinda Harper North Harbour Silver
Jacinda Papps Wellington Bronze
M 35-39
Shane Vincent Hamilton Gold
M45-49
Walter Thorburn North Harbour Gold
Stephen Farrell North Harbour Silver
Greg Ball North Harbour Bronze
F 55-59
Sue Jones Canterbury Silver
M70-74
Neil Fleming Taupo Silver
