Eckstein's jump from surf series champion to Kona Ironman competitor sparks debate, highlighting the evolution and crossover appeal of endurance sports.
A look back at 15 years of Noosa Triathlon reveals consistent excellence in women's times, slight gains in men's speeds, and a stable gap between top male and female finishers.
Despite a heavy training load and fierce competition from Rochelle Hill, Ashleigh Gentle claimed an extraordinary 11th Noosa title, extending her record-breaking reign at Australia's biggest tri.
Twenty-one-year-old Braden Mercer, son of late surf lifesaving icon Dean Mercer, dominated from swim to finish to claim an emotional hometown victory at triathlon's biggest race.
Ten-time champion Ashleigh Gentle faces Olympic-caliber challengers while Luke Willian and Jake Birtwhistle lead a star-studded men's field at Australia's most iconic triathlon.