Representing your Country

​With the 2018 ITU sprint and Olympic Distance World Championships being held on the Gold Coast a mere 2 hours from us here on the Sunshine Coast there are a lot of athletes showing interest in the ever growing event. Racing for your country is something so special and what makes this event so great is that your friends and family can come and support you as well.

I myself have been lucky enough to compete at 2 ITU world championships both being for Sprint Distance where I have raced the aquathon also. My first world championship was in 2012 in Auckland the second being in 2013 in London. These are two completely different countries, which of course brought 2 completely different playing fields.  Auckland was predominantly Aussies vs the Kiwi’s across the ditch. Whereas, London played host to a stack of Europeans and some crazy talented American athletes. Both events were amazing in their own unique way but one thing is for sure putting on the green and gold suit is something special.

I have also had the chance to step up the distance a little and race at the recent 70.3 World Championships right here in our backyard. Completely different again, but the level of nerves and the feeling you get never changes.

Regardless of which country you are representing to me, putting on the green and gold put a whole new meaning of pride and excitement to my racing. I think it is honestly underestimated just how much of an impact a particular race suit can have. It truly is an honor to represent your country and do that very best that you can.

Here is what coach Emma said racing worlds meant for her:
‘For me it means the pinnacle of racing as a high performing age group athlete. It's an opportunity to race against the best (age groupers) in the world and to do something I love and have a passion for whilst representing my country.’

If you have even a slight thought about racing some of the qualifying races, I 100% think you should give it a go as you have nothing to lose, but the chance to earn your spot racing for your beloved country. If you want some help on how to plan your races, talk to your coach now :)
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Coach Bonnie
Click here to find out more about Coach Bon!