OPOTIKI brothers Alex and Daniell Wilton like competing against each – because it brings the best out of them
The pair placed first and second in the junior boys’ super sprint triathlon held in Ohope.
It was part of the Whakatane Cycle Centre’s annual Ohope Sprint Triathlon on Sunday, which saw two events take place; the full sprint distance triathlon which involved a 750m swim, 20km bike and 5km run and the super sprint on a smaller course, which is a 400m swim, 12km bike and 2.5km run.
Thirteen-year-old Alex managed bragging rights over his older brother with his time of 45 minutes and 51 seconds, two minutes quicker than Daniell’s effort of 48.01.
“It was good fun. I just enjoy doing these sorts of events and it was nice beating Daniell.’’
Alex said he enjoyed the challenge of triathlons and was looking forward to competing in a few more.
It was a busy weekend for Alex as he took part in the Eastern Regional Champs – a big junior surf lifesaving competition, at Ohope the previous day.
The pair are avid adventure racers and do surf lifesaving as well as triathlons, so they know how to keep busy, with Alex also a swimmer with the Whakatane Swimming Club.
Mum Kylie said it was good having two active sons. ‘They are pretty busy but it’s good.
“I enjoy seeing them get out and do those different events. It’s a great club here and we really enjoy coming and competing in all the events.’’
Daniell said he didn’t mind losing to his younger brother.
“We’re both competitive but that’s okay. I just wanted to have a good race and I think I achieved that.’’
Like Alex he enjoys all the disciplines of triathlon but is quite a strong runner.
“I do the 2km beach run in surf lifesaving so that helps with running.’’
He said he just wanted to do as many events as possible and was excited at competing in the BOP Secondary School Triathlon championships in a couple of weeks’ time.
“It should be good fun.’’
Conditions for Sunday’s triathlon were perfect, making for some fast racing.