By Sally McLean
REDLANDS Cycling and Multisport Club (RCMC) celebrated a standout weekend across two major events – the Lake Taupō Cycle Challenge in New Zealand and the QTS Robina Triathlon on the Gold Coast.
At Taupō, riders enjoyed clear skies and classic climbing as they circled the 160km lake course.
Justin Kimber finished strongly in 5:12, calling it “a real rider’s ride”, while Robert Collins produced a superb sub-five-hour effort, attacking in the final kilometres to finish with a 33.3km/h average after almost 2000m of climbing.
Back in Australia, the Robina Triathlon delivered thunder, lightning and torrential rain, forcing the standard distance to be shortened.
Despite the conditions, RCMC athletes impressed – Kelly Phuah, Phil Stoneman and Darren Farlow each claimed first place and State Champion titles.
Rosemary Kimber raced consistently, and Francisco Caicedo Narvaez showed resilience after a tough swim.
In the sprint division, Sally McLean took first place, while Bronwyn Williams finished a close fourth, just 30 seconds off the podium.
A remarkable weekend for RCMC, showcasing strength, patience and racing class in both sunshine and storm.