{"id":530,"date":"2013-10-27T17:49:39","date_gmt":"2013-10-27T06:49:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/nepeantriathlon.com.au\/?p=530"},"modified":"2019-02-08T04:18:14","modified_gmt":"2019-02-07T17:18:14","slug":"an-elite-field-in-the-wake-of-bushfires","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/nepeantriathlon.com.au\/history\/an-elite-field-in-the-wake-of-bushfires\/","title":{"rendered":"An Elite Field in the Wake of Bushfires"},"content":{"rendered":"

The 2013 Nepean Triathlon saw one of the hottest fields assembled for a triathlon in Australia for some time. It was also, arguably, Nepean Triathlon\u2019s most star studded field. A significant increase in prize money from the sponsorship interest generated in the previous year drew a very elite field.<\/p>\n

An Elite field<\/h2>\n

There were four Olympic representatives, a swathe of ITU competitors and numerous previous Nepean Triathlon champions in attendance across both men and women’s fields. The scene was set for a hot race at the front of the pack. The overall event sold out months in advance and the age group competition was also full of some excellent talent.<\/p>\n

Bushfires put the event at risk<\/h2>\n

The lead up to Nepean Triathlon however was also filled with drama after the worst bushfires for many years had affected the surrounding areas. Roads were shut, air quality had deteriorated and the event was close to being regrettably cancelled. Luckily, the weather changed in time to allow the event to continue.<\/p>\n

Records fall<\/h2>\n

Emma Moffatt the 2008 Olympic Bronze medallist hit the front in the run and stretched away to take a clear lead over the other ladies and take out the woman\u2019s title, Moffatt also avoided capture by a determined Aaron Royle to take the outright victory from the men. Aaron had actually competed in the Enticer 10 years ago showing that these events have as intended bred future Nepean Triathlon champions.<\/p>\n

The increased competition also had a dramatic impact on the course records:<\/p>\n