The Garmin Noosa Triathlon team gathered their elite athletes for a pre-event press conference at Noosa Heads Surf Life Saving Club on Friday 28 October, ahead of the weekend’s triathlon.
Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games representative Charlotte McShane said it was going to be hard to beat Ashleigh Gentle.
“I think that’s one of the hardest questions in triathlon, is how to beat Ash Gentle in Noosa,” Charlotte said.
“It’d be incredible to win here but I’m well aware it would be very hard when we have Ashleigh Gentle sitting here, eight-time champion. So, I’ll definitely go out there and give it a crack.
“To have all the age groups out there cheering you on while they’re also racing is pretty special. I always try to return the favour and hang around after to cheer them on throughout the rest of the day.”
When asked if she had any interest in sharing the top spot, two-time Olympian Ashleigh Gentle said, “Not really”.
“I love coming back to Noosa Tri every year, and yes I have eight titles, but every race is a new race,” she said.
“Just because I’ve won before, doesn’t mean another one is given. I need to execute a really good race and get the very best out of myself.”
She certainly executed her plan on Sunday, winning an incredible ninth title in 10 years.
2021 Noosa Triathlon champion Luke Willian reflected on taking out the top spot as he said, “Last year was amazing to win that race and it took me four cracks before I even got close to winning… it was pretty special.”
Fresh from finishing fourth in the Hawaiian Ironman, Max Neumann said it was special to be back in Noosa.
“I don’t think I’d ever want to miss this one. If I’m not coughing up blood at the end there, I’ll be very surprised,” Max laughed.
Olympian and multiple-time Noosa Triathlon champion Jake Birtwhistle said it was one of his favourite races in the world.
“It’s such an iconic race for Australia, triathletes all around the world know of it, and are jealous that we have this in our own backyard,” Jake said.
“I imagine it’s going to be a pretty tough one out there.”
When asked what weather he was hoping for on Sunday, while sitting in 33 degree heat, Jake said, “Not what it’s like right now.”
“I’m regretting my choice for clothing,” he laughed.
“I brought two options for race suits and they’re both black, so I might be struggling out there. But I guess this is what we have to get used to and I’ll be throwing a bunch of ice and water at my head.”
The sun stayed shining on Sunday, with a top of 27 degrees.
It was the first time competing in Noosa for Australian representative triathlete Emma Hogan.
“I’m a Noosa rookie. I just am stoked to be here and stoked to be racing,” Emma said.
“The age groupers are what make the race, the crowd, the volunteers… Noosa is a brilliant place so it’s going to be a brilliant weekend.”
