Queensland’s Toughest Triathlon Delivers Record Performances at Queensland Long Course Championships

The 34th edition of the iconic Hell of the West Triathlon delivered another unforgettable weekend of racing, with over 870 athletes converging on Goondiwindi from all corners of Australia to test themselves in Queensland’s toughest triathlon.

The two-day endurance festival, held across 22–23 March, featured everything from rising stars in the kids’ triathlon to high-caliber performances in the headline HOTW race, which doubled as the Queensland Long Course Triathlon State Championships. With the support of over 300 volunteers, the event was a resounding success thanks to the tireless efforts of the Hell of the West team and the Goondiwindi Tri Club.

Weather conditions kept competitors on their toes, with Saturday’s hot and humid conditions testing those in the kids’, Firestarter (Enticer), and fun run events. Sunday’s main event brought cooler, more favorable weather, much to the relief of long course competitors.

A standout moment of the weekend was the debut of the Allan Pitman Award, celebrating endurance, spirit, and commitment to the sport of triathlon. The inaugural recipients were Danielle De Launey and Patrick Hawkes, recognised for their overall age group victories and embodiment of the award’s values.

Young talent Tobyn O’Hara made history in the Firestarter Triathlon, setting a new course record with a blistering time of 21:24, while Ruby Macklin posted the second fastest female time ever over the same distance with 24:58.

In the long course feature event, Richelle Hill continued her dominance with back-to-back wins, confirming her status as one of the event’s most consistent performers. Meanwhile, Goondiwindi’s own David Bones marked a remarkable milestone by completing his 20th Hell of the West, a true testament to endurance and dedication.

As the Queensland Long Course Triathlon State Championships, the event saw exceptional performances across all age groups. Several athletes reclaimed their state titles from last season, while others earned the honor of being crowned state champion for the first time.

Next year’s Hell of the West has already been confirmed, with dates locked in for 21–22 March 2026. Competitors are encouraged to mark their calendars early for another spectacular year of racing in Goondiwindi.

With HOTW being the second-last event in the Queensland Championship Series, athletes chasing overall series honors secured crucial points, leaving only the Regional Sprint Championships as the final opportunity to score in the 2024/25 Championship Series.

2024/25 Queensland Long Course Championship

Full results can be accessed at State Championship Series – AusTriathlon.