The University of Sydney (USYD) took the victory at the UniSport Australia (UniSport) Nationals Triathlon with a strong performance in the men’s events.
The championship was held as part of the Port Stephens Triathlon Festival with students across the country competing against each other in the individual standard distance. 40 students from 10 universities competed in the triathlon with University of New South Wales having the highest representation with 16 athletes.
Due to large and dangerous surf conditions, the swim leg was cancelled with competitors instead required to start with a 4km sand run before transitioning to the bike and road run.
Unfortunately, due to insufficient universities meeting the minimum competitor requirement, an overall ranking for the women’s competition was unable to be awarded.
Kristie Caplikas, (Advanced Bachelor of Science majoring in Astrophysics) The Australian National University, led the attack with a time of 02:15:59 to clutch first place in the women’s race minutes ahead of Aimee Carlin (Masters of Physiotherapy), from University of Technology Sydney, and Ella Wooldridge from University of Sunshine Coast grasping third place.
Luke Schofield, (Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Science) The University of Sydney, triumphed in the men’s event with a time of 01:51.17. His twin brother, Jayden Schofield (Bachelor of Engineering and Bachelor of Science) from the University of Sydney trailed milliseconds behind for a close second at 01:51.20, with Josh Wooldridge from University of Technology Sydney rounding out the podium minutes later.
With two podium finishes, the University of Sydney were propelled to the top of the men’s overall rankings, cementing its strength in this year’s UniSport Nationals competitions.
UniSport CEO, Mark Sinderberry indicated his confidence in this year’s events.
“It is exciting to see Nationals events commence this year and with such amazing results at Nationals Triathlon from university students,” says Mark.
“We are looking forward to the next Nationals Championships for swimming and witnessing the great talent of students throughout the year.”
The 2021 UniSport Nationals continues with Swimming taking place 13-16 May at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre as part of the Sydney Open Invitational Meet delivered by Swimming New South Wales.
Thank you to the Elite Energy team for facilitating the championships as part of the Port Stephens Triathlon.
For full triathlon results, click here.
For more information, please contact:
Eloise Ayre
Sport and Operations Manager – Nationals Championships
P: 0412 446 599