It seems like you’ve been around for ages, Rob! When did you actually join Bayside Tri Club?
I joined about four years ago – first as a social member, then properly for the last two years. I’d been tagging along to Bayside events for years as Ann’s partner and eventually decided to make it official!
What hooked you once you joined?
The people. Even before I raced, I always felt included. It’s hard not to stick around when a club makes space for you like that.
And it’s been great seeing you start to join in training more and even do a few races!
Yes, I’ve completed a handful of duathlons over the last few years, and I’ve even attempted a couple of triathlons up at Bridgewater.
Ah, Bridgewater – what a great tri and weekend away. What stands out from that first tri?
The fact I didn’t drown. That felt like a genuine achievement. My son, Robbie, raced with me and acted as my swim coach/rescue person, which probably helped keep me alive.
Ha ha, yes, we fully endorse bringing your own water safety crew along to events!
What are your next races?
How iI’m eyeing up a 2XU fun tri. The small hurdle is learning not to sink. Either that or I’ll just register after a massive downpour, so it becomes a duathlon.s
Nice strategy! Most of us hate the beach run/duathlon format, but you’ll be all set with the Melbourne weather.
Which age group are you in?
55-60
What’s your post-race indulgence?
What’s your post-race indulgence?
A bacon and egg roll. Works after any ride, any race, any situation really.
Ha ha, so no need to bother training or racing really, you could just go for brunch instead.
If your bike could talk, what would it say?
“Umm…you need a bike fit. And your own bike.”
Hmm, so who’s bike are you riding?!
Where has life taken you so far, outside of triathlon?
Well, I was born in Singapore, then I lived in the UK for a couple of years, then Sydney until about 20 years ago, when Ann and I moved to Melbourne so the kids could start school.
And how did you and Annie meet?
We both worked for the same company, Ann in the Melbourne office and me in the Sydney office. Ann came up for a couple of weeks’ work and we hit it off. After 3 months of long-distance relationship, I told the boss I wanted to move Melbourne, so a new role was created for me. Then 3 months later we were engaged and then 6 months after that we were married and moved to Sydney.
Speedy!
Any favourite holiday destinations for you guys?w is
Japan – the whole family loved it, and we’d go back in a heartbeat. We’re planning next year’s trip now, so the title of “favourite” might shift.
What do you get up to outside of sport and travel?
Gardening and jobs around the house. Nothing glamorous.
Typical Dad stuff. I bet you’re the family Uber too!
What work do you do?
I’m an IT Manager. Been in IT since I left school.
Could you make your job sound a bit more engaging for our readers?
Not really 😉
What’s on your bucket list?
Watching an F1 race in Singapore.
Who’s your biggest supporter?
Who’s your biggest supporter?
Annie, absolutely. But my Dad has always encouraged me in everything I’ve taken on.
Aww, and of course you have supported Annie loads too. Favourite place you’ve watched Annie race?
Queensland World Titles in 2018 – all the kids were with us, which made it special. I’m now keeping an eye out for overseas events. Great excuse for a holiday.
Ha ha – that’s what I thought about Marbella, but then I had to do a bloody hard race.
Ann can race, I’ll watch 😊
How would you describe your role in the family?
It shifts depending on what’s going on – peacekeeper, negotiator, educator, listener. Sometimes all in the same day.
A highly versatile Dad then! You’d need to be with 3 kids and 2 doggies.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
“If you never ask, the answer is always no.”
So true.
What’s your hidden talent?
Not sure it’s a talent, but after a lifetime of being on call, I can wake instantly. First ring of the mobile and I’m already up and heading out of the room.
What else should we know about you?
I hate being the centre of attention… so doing this profile is a big step for me.
Well thanks very much for participating – it’s great to know more about you. Best of luck for your future races! And thanks for being on the Committee 😊
