On Sunday the 14^th August, 11 Scott Endurance athletes graced the coast of Yeppoon, determined to complete a race in which they could make their coach proud. There were first timers Alicea, Ash, Nathan, Cam and Will, all rising to the challenge of completing their first half ironman, as well as Carolyn, Ben, Cathie, Hugh and myself. Unfortunately due to illness, Matty had to pull out.

We were excited to be enjoying the North Queensland sunshine, and excited to see how much that tough winter training was about to pay off. But the mood was also somewhat somber, as we thought of Mark and the battle that he is fighting back home.

As we made the 2km journey down the beach to the start line, the confident swimmers smiled as they looked out at what they were about to face, and the weaker swimmers trembled in fear. The water looked ferocious and choppy. My previously calm nerves instantly escalated and I became overwhelmed with trepidation and angst. Thankfully the current was strong, and everyone exited the water with fast swim times.

Despite a strong headwind, I loved the bike leg of the race. It was a 5 lap out and back course which meant that there was never a moment too long that a bright lime green, or hot pink Scott Endurance athlete wouldn’t be riding past. We cheered each other on, providing the support and motivation exhibited in the weeks leading up to the race, as we trained through winter without our coach. Here in the bike leg, we stuck together and fought it out, everyone proving we are capable of greatness.

By the time we were running, the Queensland sun was flaunting its full force. We were alone now, with the run course being loops, so the next 21km was a test of mental toughness. We drew on the strength that Mark has displayed, each of us fighting to make it to the finish as fast as we physically could manage.

As we all crossed the finish line and dove into the resort pool, we hoped that we had done enough to make Mark proud. Everyone finished in sensational times, some under what they could have only dreamed. Ben took 1^st in his age category and Ash and myself both grabbed 3^rd. The Yeppoon half ironman was certainly a success for the Scott Endurance athletes of Wollongong.