The Resurgence of Triathlon in Canberra
Triathlon has a rich history in Australia. As a nation we’ve developed numerous world, Olympic and Paralympic medalists. On top of our own national success, we’ve also played a key role in the success of athletes from other nations.
Naturally, training for triathlon in Australia is often linked to cities such as the Gold Coast, Cronulla or Brisbane but one city that is often overlooked has played as large a role in the success of triathlon in Australia as any other… the nation’s capital - Canberra.
Over the years Canberra has been a breeding ground for emerging talent while providing a training environment for elite triathletes to chase international success. With the facilities and resources on offer this is no surprise.
Access to Swimming Pools and Lakes - Canberra is home to a host of 25m and 50m pools. Whether you’re looking to join a swim or triathlon squad or get some lap time on your own, there’s no shortage of pools to choose from. Often overlooked is Canberra’s access to open water swimming. Home to the National Capital Lake Swim, Lake Burley Griffin gives swimmers the opportunity the swim 9kms from Scrivener Dam to Claire Holland House.
Running/Cycling Trails - One of Canberra’s greatest attractions as ‘The Bush Capital’ is access to running and cycling trails, whether you’re looking for some mountain running, a single track or some fire trails, chances are what you’re looking for is at your back door!
Safe Roads - Without question Canberra is home to some of the best roads and cycle network in Australia. You are hard pressed to find somewhere in Canberra not connected by a bike lane or path and riding technical climbs and descents on car free roads is minutes from your doorstep.
Health Care Professionals - Canberra’s rich history in sport and being the home of the Australian Institute of Sport coupled with the quality education offered in Canberra gives residents access to some of the world’s best health care. Whether you’re in need of a good physio, sports doctor, exercise physiologist or podiatrist, you name it, Canberra has it and with the rich history of triathlon in Canberra chances are they too are a triathlete!
World Renowned Tertiary Education - One of the biggest draws to Canberra is access to quality tertiary education. Home to the Australian National University, The Univeristy of Canberra, Australian Catholic University and Charles Sturt University (Canberra) if you’re looking for a degree to study, chances are Canberra has it on offer. On top of the quality education these universities offer, the support they give to triathletes is second to none and a number of our local stars are currently on elite athlete programs and scholarships at our universities!
With the population density in major cities rising and the constant battle of motorists vs bikes leaving triathletes in the lurk when it comes to training environments it is no surprise Canberra is quickly finding itself back on the radar as one of the countries best options for triathlon training.