Champion Australian athlete Courtney Atkinson will use the Life Stream Foundation’s inaugural triathlon in Mackay as a stepping stone to strike Olympic gold in Athens next year. Mackay-born Atkinson will join fellow Olympic contender and Life Stream ambassador Loretta Harrop in Mackay for the event at the Mackay Marina on September 21.

MPA chief executive officer, Greg Mann, (left) receives an official race t-shirt from Life Stream Foundation chairman Paul Darrouzet (right) and race organizer Nick Croft in preparation for the inaugural triathlon on September 21.

An injury and other commitments have placed Harrop in doubt for the event but Australia’s top female triathlete is attempting to attend the coaching clinic in a bid to pass on her experience to local athletes on Saturday, September 20. The event will coincide with the launch of Life Stream’s office in Mackay.

Life Stream is a non-profit organization that’s committed to helping people with intellectual disabilities achieve personal and sporting goals.

Life Stream chairman Paul Darrouzet said more than 200 competitors were expected to take part in the triathlon. The event boasts $15 000 in prizes, including trips to Hawaii. The triathlon comprises a kilometre swim leg, 30 kilometre bike ride and an eight kilometre run.

Mr Darrouzet said keen rivalry was emerging between Mackay business houses and Bowen Basin coal mines. "It’s a great way for people to get out and have some fun – but at the same time raise money for people with intellectual disabilities. It doesn’t really matter who wins, we always say just to finish is to win."

Mackay Port Authority CEO Greg Mann said the MPA was proud to be associated with the event and hoped the Mackay triathalon would eventually become part of a North Queensland circuit. "In years to come we hope the event will match the likes of the Noosa Triathlon that injects more than 5 million dollars into the local economy." he said.

Meantime, Mr Darrouzet said race organizers were thrilled that Courtney Atkinson would use the triathlon to prepare for the world championships in Queenstown, Tasmania in December and the Olympics in Athens next year. "Courtney also has agreed to help out at the coaching clinic." Mr Darrouzet said. "He’s a definite contender for Olympic selection and will be an inspiration to athletes, both young and old."

Mr Darrouzet said the triathlon would include a special Life Stream Aqua-thon for people with disabilities. The day will culminate with presentations and family entertainment at the Reef Marina.

A children’s aqua-thon, catering for young competitors between seven and 16 years, will also be held on Saturday, September 20.