COMPETITORS of all ages have battled it out in the first-ever twilight triathlon held in Gunnedah.
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Organised by the Gunnedah Cycling and Triathlon Club, Saturday's competition was held as a part of Gunnedah Shire Council's Weeks of Speed program.
The impressive turn out of competitors has left organisers confident of hosting similar events in the future.
Club member Lauren Robertson said it was pleasing to see "such a great turn out".
"We were very pleased with the amount of competitors who entered on Saturday," Robertson said.
"I think it was especially pleasing to see so many kids enter as well.
"As well as the kids, there were also a few fresh faces along for the day as well, which is always nice to see.
"Overall, it was a really great event and I think a major win for our club."
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Battling rare but welcome rain, competitors took to the pool before heading out the closed streets of Gunnedah, first on the bike before finishing on foot.
"We weren't too focused on who won, or times,or anything like that," Robertson said.
"It was a really good chance to have a hit out and for us a good chance to see how everyone liked the concept.
There is a really strong core of athletes in Gunnedah and the response from them regarding the concept was really pleasing."
Robertson said the use of the upgraded Gunnedah Memorial Pool was "a fabulous addition" to the club.
"It really is fantastic," she said.
"Hopefully it will give us great scope for our future meetings.
"With how well received this event was, we will certainly look to incorporate more twilight events into our calendar during our next season, which starts in spring."
For Robertson, Saturday's event was a return to action after she missed most of 2018 due to injury.
"It felt really good to get back out there again," she said.
"I had leg surgery early last year and that prevented me from competing.
"But while I was still shaking off some of the rust, I felt really good out there and really enjoyed myself."
The evening's action began with a 'mini competition', which saw junior stars such as Darcy Hannaford and Angus Hobson battle it out.
"I think the kids had a lot of fun," Robertson said.
"They entered in big numbers, which is great to see.
"Like all clubs the juniors are our life blood and our future, and they need to enjoy the sport.
"So to see so many of them get out there, have a go, enjoy themselves and have fun was rewarding for us as a club."