This weekend's Kawana Aquathlon hosts the Queensland State Championship - Aquathlon and it is shaping up to be a fiercely contested event.   Amongst an impressive field, 11 defending champions have already registered.

 

The run-swim-run format provides a unique challenge for triathletes, having to judge pacing on the initial run, battling heavy legs in the swim and then settling back into rhythm for the second run.

 

Among the starters is Bargara Triathlon Club's Penny Palfrey - the current Age Group Aquathlon World Champion will take the start line, along with husband  Chris Palfrey, who recently placed 3rd in the Age Group World Championships in Canada.

 

For athletes looking to qualify for the 2018 ITU Age Group Aquathlon World Championships in Fyn, Denmark, Kawana is the only Queensland selection event.

 

This event also forms Race 8 of the Nissan State Series, where Triathlon Queensland members can earn both individual and club points towards being crowned the overall Nissan State Series Champion, age group champion or towards club champion.

 

Aquathlon entries are still available until Friday 12pm here.  To be recognised as a State Champion (and to earn points in the Nissan State Series), you must be a Triathlon Queensland member.