Two local Airlie Beach triathletes celebrated outstanding achievements at the finish line of the Ironman Asia Pacific Championships in Busselton, Western Australia, held on Sunday, December 7, 2025.
Rowena Sinclair-Smith and local legend Michael Kimpton both finished on the podium in their respective age groups and were selected to represent Australia at the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii, in October 2026.
Rowena and Michael, members of the Whitsunday Triathlon Club, have both competed in Kona previously and were privileged to be selected again for triathlon’s most famous race in the world. Held on the Big Island since 1978, the event is renowned for its brutal course, with athletes cycling and running through lava fields in challenging heat, humidity and wind. The conditions test endurance and demand peak physical and mental strength.
The Ironman in Busselton included a calm 3.8km ocean swim in Geographe Bay, followed by a two-lap 180km cycle course, with each 90km loop run on superb roads with a little wind. Athletes then faced a demanding four-lap, 10km run course to complete the marathon in the late Busselton sun.
Michael Kimpton said it was a phenomenal event.
"Whether you are on the start line for the first time or chasing a fast time, Ironman Busselton was a wonderful race to experience," he said.
"This year in Busselton there were many incredible athlete performances from newbies to the Pros. Spectators lined the scenic course still cheering as the sun went down!
"Nearly fifty percent of the field were first timers, showcasing the growing popularity of the sport."
Val Kimpton once again volunteered from dawn till dusk and placed Michael’s medal and towel on him at the finish line.
Val and Michael were also proud to see professional Caleb Noble, an ambassador for the award-winning Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival, place second overall in the professional male category.
"It's an unbelievable achievement on the day as the pro field talent was enormous," they said.
"Caleb was also selected to represent Australia at the World Ironman Championships in Kona, Hawaii in 2026."
Former Airlie Beach Triathlon participant Lotte Wilms also claimed the professional female title, and Michael and Val are hoping to bring her back to Airlie Beach in 2026.
Michael Kimpton crossing the line in Busselton, Western Australia
Rowena Sinclair-Smith is heading to the World Championship next year.
Photos supplied
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