Olympian Annabelle McIntyre to Test Endurance at the 2025 UniSport Nationals Triathlon

The 2025 UniSport Nationals Triathlon (Nationals Triathlon) is approaching fast. Nationals Triathlon is the pinnacle of endurance sports events, combining swimming, biking, and running into one event.

Competing against some of the best athletes from universities across Australia, it is a test of physical and mental fortitude that promises immense rewards and unforgettable experiences.

Olympic gold medallist rower and two-time University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Sports Person of the Year award winner Annabelle McIntyre is taking on one of her biggest challenges yet as she joins the UTS Triathlon Nationals team.

Swapping the boat for a swim, bike, and run, Annabelle is diving into this event as a key part of her road to recovery after injury, and her story sets the stage for an event that is sure to promise excitement.

“I needed to build my endurance back up through swimming, riding, and running—basically anything but rowing,” she said.

“The date of the event is around 6 months post-op, so I figured it was the perfect amount of time to get fit and have a go at something different”.

Although the shift from rowing to triathlon presents new hurdles, like perfecting the transitions between sports, Annabelle is tackling the challenge head-on.

Her determination and love for sport highlights how this event is not just about competing, but also about pushing her boundaries.

Nationals Triathlon will be hosted as part of the Peoplecare Triathlon Wollongong in Wollongong, New South Wales. The event in Wollongong City will take place in and around the stunning harbour precinct and along the city’s blue mile.

The organisers are known for putting together a well-run and welcoming event, and they have created a day that blends competition with camaraderie.

Participants get the chance to mix with students from all over the country, sharing in the thrill of a triathlon and the support of a wonderful community. Nationals Triathlon is a fantastic way to meet new people and evaluate yourself.

For Annabelle, sport is more than just competition, it is about community.

“Sport for me will always been about being part of a community. A place to meet new people and hang out with old friends.”

“The community in sport, whether it be rowing or triathlons or whatever else, is what will always be there whether you participate socially or competitively and those relationships that you build through there is what helps you through the highs and lows.”

For those hesitant about signing up for a Triathlon Annabelle says, “hesitation is natural if you are worried about the results, but I’d rather know, so I can try to change the outcome in the future and not be left wondering.”

Whether you are an experienced athlete or new to triathlons, the 2025 UniSport Nationals Triathlon offers both sprint and full Olympic-distance triathlons, ensuring a rewarding experience for all participants.

The competition will be held on Saturday 26 April 2025 and Sunday 27 April 2025 in Wollongong for both men and women. For more information on the event and how to register please contact your University Team Manager (UTM) to find out how to get involved or visit the UniSport website.  

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marketing@unisport.com.au see also: https://www.unisport.com.au/nationals-triathlon