Athletes soldier on in scorcher of a day

Triathletes braved the extreme temperatures last weekend to compete in the Geraldton Triathlon Club round.

It was a pleasant surprise to see optimal ocean conditions, which made for some fast swimming times.

There were also some fast bike splits recorded on the day, with favourable light winds, but the heat did make it challenging.

The race format included three distances.

The enticer was a 300m swim, 7km ride and 2km run.

Short course racers swam 300m, rode 17km and ran 4km.

The long course comprised a 600m swim, 27km ride and a 5km run.

By the time the bikes were racked in transition, the temperature seemed to have spiked.

Club members were ready with the hose to cool down competitors as they began their run.

Despite the heat, there were some great performances.

The long course was won by Ben Freer and Mischa Westlake, with Scott Dennett winning the short course.

Competitors are now gearing up for the next round of events, with the Christmas triathlon due to take place next week.