On Sunday 22^nd March, a record number of competitors gathered at the Dowerin Memorial Swimming Pool to take part in the fourth annual Be Active Battle of the Towns Triathlon. Over sixty keen athletes representing Dowerin and Goomalling registered. Young and young at heart, in a team or tackling it individually – they were all out to earn some valuable points for their town. First up was the fun course a 200m swim, 6km cycle and 1.5km run. Dowerin proved to have great representation in all categories and came away with some deserved wins in the team events. Dowerin District High’s Travis Mann put in a fantastic effort completing the fun course individually and coming away with the win.

 Next up was the sprint course and some high school competitors put some of our more experienced competitors to shame in this grueling 400m swim, 9km bike ride and 3km run. Once again the Dowerin Football Club had great representation in this individual event with last years player coach Craig Wilson taking gold in the 2009 event, closely followed by brother in law Greg Hooper. Dowerin District High School’s Alex Sinclair should also be commended in a brave attempt at the individual course, Alex tackled it with style and came away with the win. The ladies event was dominated by Sarah Duffield with commendations going to Dowerin Hockey Club’s Courtney Reed who came in second in the ladies individual event.

When it came to tallying the overall winners, it was Dowerin who proved this year’s strongest town and secured hosting honours for the 2010 series. Congratulations to all involved and it is hoped that we see an even larger turn out and the continued support of the Dowerin Football and Hockey Clubs as individual competitors in 2010 to help defend the title.

The Be Active Triathlon is kindly sponsored by Healthway and the heart foundation to promote the ‘be active’ message within our community. Organisers would also like to thank local sponsors Dowerin Eziway and the Northam Bike shop, without whom the event would struggle to proceed. Final thanks goes to the support of our community members who continue to put up their hands to help as marshals on the day.