Race Recap

Subaru kicked off the Triathlon year on 11-12 February with the Geelong Multi Sport Festival held on the shores of Geelong's Eastern Beach. As expected there was an abundance of enthusiastic first-timers, the usual obsessive-compulsive age groupers, punters, professional athletes and even more noteworthy, dedicated supporters umbrellas and rain jackets in tow.

Eyes Wide Open Images

The weather was unpredictable, as were the unexpected events during the Australian Sprint distance Championship for ironman champion Chris McCormack and Subaru ambassador Courtney Atkinson. Both vying for Olympic selection, this was not the race to do time in the penalty box. Not surprisingly both finished outside of the top 5. Fifteen seconds can be a race breaker at the best of times none more so than in sprint distances where every second is crucial. (Read Courtney's race wrap)

Outside the competitive arena, things looked far brighter where Subaru held prime position at the sport and lifestyle expo. With more room than previous events, five vehicles were showcased (instead of two) and not surprisingly the Subaru XV attracted the most attention accessorised with top-of-the-range Thule racks and Specialized bikes. The constant stream of people redeeming Subaru race belts, registering to win an XV, checking results Tracker, personalising messages on fan boards and getting photos with Courtney Atkinson made Subaru HQ the place to be. The lounge and plasma TV was also a major drawcard for the wet and weary.

The weekend provided opportunities to be both competitive and social. Among visitors showing an interest in the XV was winner of the Urban 2.80.20 women's race, Australian ironman pro Belinda Granger and husband Justin who finished 8th overall in the men's.

Belinda and Justin Granger with Subaru's Steve Desira

Courtney Atkinson caught up with Subaru Cycling Show radio host and Geelong triathlon commentator Phil Wrochna and the Subaru Expo team claimed victory in the waiter's race sponsored by long time customer of Subaru Geelong Scotchmans Hill Wines.

The popularity and growth of the sport of triathlon has never been more evident with the numbers in attendance over the Geelong weekend despite the weather. Congratulations to all the participants and supporters and to USM Events for yet another superbly organised weekend.