Triathletes hit the shores of Gosling Creek

For the second time, the NSW Club Triathlon Championships returns to the shores and surrounds of Gosling Creek.

The annual Club Championships is one of the most keenly anticipated events of the Triathlon calendar with well over 1000 participants from over 50 clubs in NSW taking part in the day.

Orange Mayor Reg Kidd said it was a boon for the city.

“Sporting tourism provides a huge boost for the local economy,” Cr Kidd said.

“This particular championship has competitors from 7 years through to adults.

“It has a junior Club Championship round which means these competitors usually come with a parent, or two and a sibling or two. They all need food and accommodation.”

Orange City council’s Sport and Recreation Chair Jason Hamling said the recently extended beach area at Gosling creek would make this year’s event run even more smoothly.

“We’ve extended the beach in the last week making it much easier for competitors to enter the water alongside any lifesaving rafts, which also need quick access.”

The race consists of a 1km swim, a 30km bike ride and an 8km run.

This event is unique in that athletes compete for their Club rather than as an individual. It rewards both participation and performance and is the highlight event in many club calendars. Every person who races or volunteers earns a point for the club and every point counts.

There will again be a Junior Club Championships for ages from 10-12 years and 13-15 years and also participation event for 7-9 year olds.

Cr Hamling said he hoped the relationship between the Championship organisers and Council would continue for years in to the future.

“It’s wonderful we’ve been able to secure this event,” Cr Hamling said.

“It’s unique, it brings thousands of people to the city and once they see what a great place Orange is, and what is has to offer, there’s every chance they’ll be back.”

The leash free area at nearby Bloomfield Park will be unavailable on Saturday while the Championships is being held because it is being used for parking.

Road closures and some delays are expected between 10am and 4pm on Saturday in areas surrounding Gosling Creek.

Traffic on Bargwanna Road, Bloomfield Road, Forest Road, Orchard Road, Forest Reefs Road, Dog Trap Lane and Cadia Road will be affected. Please expect delays during these hours.

Emergency vehicles will maintain right of way at all times.

Travel to the airport from Orange is encouraged via Huntley Road to minimise delays.

Detailed Resident, Business and Local Information –