After its successful revival in 2024, the Kiama Triathlon is back for the second consecutive year, landing in the middle of a jam-packed schedule for local athletes.

The event will take place on May 10, following the same popular course as last year: a swim in the Minnamurra River, a bike leg to Jamberoo via Swamp Road, and a run through Minnamurra to the finish line.

Kiama Triathlon Club vice-president Geoff Besnard says the event’s return could mark the beginning of a long-standing tradition.

A competitor in the 2024 Kiama Triathlon - the first one in over a decade. Photo: Brian Scott

“After the success of last October’s race, we’re hopeful it becomes a staple on the calendar,” says Besnard.

“All the feedback from last year’s event was positive, so the council had no issues with approving it again. Locals were happy, competitors were happy with the course - it all just worked.”

Originally scheduled for October again this year, the triathlon was shifted to May to avoid clashing with the World Triathlon Championship Finals, which will be held in Wollongong on October 15. The new date, however, presents a challenge for local participation.

“A lot of our athletes are doing Ironman Port Macquarie on May 4, and then the NSW Club Championships in Forster on May 17. So it’s not ideal timing - there’ll be fewer Kiama competitors this time,” Besnard says.

Despite the tight schedule, Besnard is confident the race will still be a success. “The triathlon will still be a sellout - I assure you there won’t be any empty spots.”

The Kiama Triathlon Club has a strong competitive record, having won five of the last seven NSW Club Championships, and hopes to continue that streak in 2025.

“About a third of our club will head to Forster. It’s our biggest event each year,” says Besnard. “We’ve got around 26 or 27 athletes competing, and we’re confident we’ll do well.”

In addition to the Club Championships, Kiama athletes will also compete at Ironman Port Macquarie, the Ultraman event in Noosa (also on May 10), and aim to qualify for the World Championships in Wollongong.

With a packed 2025 ahead, Kiama Triathlon Club continues to punch above its weight - proving once again that this small coastal town produces some of the state’s most committed and capable triathletes.