Shannon Chapman continues to excel in her chosen sport with a top 10 finish on the international stage.
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Mudgee product turned in an outstanding performance at Ironman Malaysia to finish sixth in the women’s pro division over a gruelling course earlier this month.
Chapman said the tough conditions made for difficult racing.
“Ironman Malaysia is described as the most gruelling triathlon in the world, due to the humid conditions, and torrential rain,” she said.
“I really enjoyed the race. It was a very well ran event, the people were very friendly.”
The Ironman event is made up of a 3.9km swim, 180.2km ride and 42.4km run.
Chapman emerged from the water in eighth in her division in a time of one hour, 7 minutes and 12 seconds.
She maintained her position throughout the ride, completing the 180.2km in five hours, 47 minutes and 16 seconds.
It was in the run where she was able to make up ground by completing the marathon in three hours, 56 minutes and 45 seconds to claim sixth place in her division.
Chapman’s triathlon career kick started just five years ago, racing as a professional for a total of one year.
I never thought I would be good enough.
- Shannon Chapman
Triathlon has taken Chapman all over the world, including Hawaii, America, Malaysia and Switzerland, as well as some Aussie stops including Mandurah, Ballarat, and Shepparton.
“I get to travel the world, see beautiful places, meet new people, make amazing friendships,” she said.
“The courses are all different, they are not really country specific. The weather and terrain are the major differences.
“I have raced at seas level, at 2500m elevation, freezing cold snow capped mountains in Europe and the desert heat in the US.”
While triathlon isn’t for the faint hearted, Shannon encourages everyone to try their hand at the sport.
“Join the local tri club. Mudgee Tri Club is all about inclusion of all ages and abilities,” Chapman said.
“There is a great Junior program, which teaches kids all aspects of triathlon.”
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Jay-Anna Sleeman
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
Reporter for the Western Advocate. First began as a sports journalist with ACM in 2018 before moving on to cover news and court.
