The athletes set a number PBs, reflecting better riding conditions and extra training over the week, organisers said. 

Ben Dawson and Justin Barnes fought hard all day with the younger Dawson trying to smash his more experienced rival in the first 100m of the run leg. Much to his surprise, Barnes overtook Dawson and led for most of the run leg, until the younger man proved the slow and steady adage wrong by cruising home in the final 200m, pipping his opponent by five seconds and earning bragging rights for this week. 

Moree’s most experienced triathlete Andrew Noakes taught the youngsters a valuable lesson, though unfortunately for the veteran it was not drawn from his years of training. ‘Noakesy’ forgot to bring his riding shoes so his day finished after the swim. 

Ciaran O’Gorman continues to go well despite his colleagues claiming he is only doing three laps on the bike leg. Many of the back markers will be looking over their shoulders when he next gets on a road bike. 

Moree Services Cycle and Triathlon Club (MSCTC) president Bill Adams said it was good to see Charles Brett back and doing the swim and bike legs and that he was looking forward to seeing regulars Quinn, Maunder, Eichner, Humphries, Madden and Smith when work and other activities were finished.   

Adams said the club was on the rise again after participations dropped off following the beginning of work on the town bypass. He expects at least a half dozen of the club’s 50 members will travel to nearby competitions like those in Inverell, Tamworth and Narrabri, with Goondiwindi putting on the biggest show of the season next February. 

The annual Hell of the West is billed as one of Australia’s toughest and most challenging races. It involves a  two kilometre swim in the murky Macintyre River, an 80km ride and 20km run in the scorching Goondiwindi summer sun. 

But Adams said the club wasmainly a social affair.

“It’s low key; there are no prizes. We do handicaps and aim to get everyone finishing at the same time,” he said.

“We’ve got bicycles to borrow if people need them. It’s a friendly, supportive environment and it’s a good, social way to get active. You’ve also got the opportunity to travel to some exotic locations and some not-so-exotic locations to meet more people.” 

Annual membership is $10 individually or $20 for the family. Each event is $5, $2 for pool members. Those wanting to get involved can visit the club’s Facebook page, email msctclub@gmail.com or turn up at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre at 6.30am on Saturday mornings.