How to Watch the 2024 Noosa Triathlon: Gentle Aims for Historic 11th Title
Australia's biggest triathlon returns Sunday with Ashleigh Gentle chasing an 11th title, while Olympic stars Luke Willian and Jake Birtwhistle headline a stacked men's field.
Triathlon's biggest event in the Southern Hemisphere celebrates its 41st edition this Sunday, with all eyes on hometown hero Ashleigh Gentle as she chases an unprecedented 11th Noosa title. Here's everything you need to know about one of Australia's most iconic races.
When to Watch
The racing kicks off at Noosa Heads this Sunday (November 3), with the elite men starting at 06:15 AEST, followed by the women at 06:17 AEST. For international viewers, that's:
- UK: Saturday, November 2, 20:15
- Central Europe: Saturday, November 2, 21:15
- US West Coast: Saturday, November 2, 12:15
- US East Coast: Saturday, November 2, 15:15
Who to Watch
Women's Race
All eyes will be on Ashleigh Gentle, who has dominated this event with 10 victories in the last 11 years. However, she'll face stiff competition from last year's podium finishers Sophie Malowiecki and Richelle Hill. Fresh from her Olympic debut in Paris, Natalie Van Coevorden adds further depth to an already stellar field.
The international contingent includes Dutch star Lotte Wilms, Sweden's Anna Bergsten, and the New Zealand duo of Rebecca Clarke and two-time Olympian Nicole Van Der Kaay.
Men's Race
The men's field is packed with talent, led by former champions Luke Willian and Jake Birtwhistle. Willian enters the race in career-best form after finishing sixth in the World Triathlon Championship rankings and making his Olympic debut in Paris.
International challengers include South African Olympian Jamie Riddle and New Zealand's Tayler Reid, while defending champion Charlie Quin and Mooloolaba Triathlon winner Caleb Noble can't be discounted.
Prize Money
A total prize purse of A$75,000 is up for grabs, with the winners taking home A$15,600 each. The money runs ten places deep, with second place earning A$9,100 and third A$5,200.
The Course
Athletes will tackle the Olympic distance format:
- 1.5km swim in the crystal-clear waters off Noosa Main Beach
- 40km bike course featuring the infamous Garmin Hill climb
- 10km run along Noosa Parade and through the town's buzzing streets
The Stakes
Beyond the prize money, this year's race carries extra significance. For Gentle, it's a chance to extend her remarkable dynasty with an 11th title, while also testing her form ahead of the upcoming PTO Tour Final in Dubai.
For the rest of the field, there's the opportunity to make history by becoming the first athlete to defeat Gentle at Noosa since 2013. The men's race is wide open, with several athletes capable of adding their names to the prestigious list of winners.
Whether you're a triathlon die-hard or casual fan, the 41st Noosa Triathlon promises to deliver another memorable chapter in this iconic event's history. Don't miss it.
