SCONE'S Nicky Western is hoping her current vein of rich form continues after taking out the women’s crown at the Sparke Helmore Newcastle City Triathlon at the weekend.
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The Upper Hunter Shire Council sports participation officer completed the 1500m swim, 37km ride and 10km run in a blistering 2:26.34 to secure ninth overall in the 1000-plus field.
Western also claimed top spot in the 45-49 years category.
“I was very pleased with my time,” she admitted.
“And, I was happy with the swim, which I did in 28 minutes.
“I think I finished sixth fastest (1:11.23) in the cycle stage, too.
“However, the legs weren’t feeling fresh in the final leg (47.08).
“It was [contested] in hot and windy conditions, which made it tough.
“It’s funny though, the announcer said I was placed second in my age group.
“So, I busted a gut thinking someone was ahead of me – only to find out he made a mistake when I crossed the finish line.
“But, this [triathlon] was just for fun.
“I qualified for the World Long Course Championships in Denmark, in July, when I won the 45-49 [years] section at the Tweed Coast Enduro in Pottsville earlier this month.
“However, I haven’t decided if I’ll do that yet.”
In the main race on Sunday, Novocastrian Louis Hill was victorious with a time of 2:09.08 after early leaders Hamish Longmuir and Will Dawes, the defending champion, both experienced mechanical failures on the bike.
The move to Queens Wharf continued to breathe new life into the Newcastle City Triathlon with spectators lining Newcastle Harbour to watch the 25th anniversary race.
It was the second year the swim leg had started from the iconic location and event organiser Paul Humphreys said it was a “winner”.
Meanwhile, Western’s next assignment is the newly-named Bathurst Cycling Classic in April.
Formerly known as the Blayney to Bathurst (B2B), the 110km event will double as the Australian Road Racing Championships.
“I’m definitely aiming for a national title,” she said.
“And, I’m confident I’ll go alright with all the training under my belt.”