SSG Multisports Conquers the Hervey Bay 100 Festival

The Hervey Bay 100 Festival proved to be an unforgettable weekend for SSG Multisports, with over 20 members diving into the action across various events. From the challenging 150 GC to the 50 and 100 Individual races, our squad showcased resilience, camaraderie, and a strong nod to our swim group roots. Despite rough ocean conditions that shortened swims and gusty winds that tested every leg, the team's spirit shone through, turning tough moments into triumphs.

Planning for the event kicked off weeks in advance, with the group chat buzzing about accommodations, custom t-shirts, and race strategies. Members like Greg Mc organized tea

m shirts in dark heather gray, complete with the club's logo and event design, which became a hit on course. As Jodie Bee noted, "Looking forward to suffering in paradise with you all." The excitement built as the squad coordinated arrivals, with many heading up on Friday for pre-race rolls and swims. Tamara Dyer summed up the vibe perfectly: "I love this club, we support each other in training and racing."

Race weekend delivered epic conditions, starting with northerly winds whipping up the bay. Saturday's 50 Individual saw swims cut to 500m, but our open water regulars powered on. Steven McCulloch led the charge, finishing 3rd overall and 2nd in his category. Wiremu Hollis (Woosa) took 3rd in Humpbacks, while Jason Joffe claimed 1st in Humpbacks. Janelle Harding earned 3rd in her category, and Malcolm Wesener nabbed 1st in Aquabike. In the team event, Jennifer McMillan and Chris Farnham tackled the tandem, with Jennifer's swim and run bookending Chris's bike leg. As Jennifer shared in her race report, "It was pure stubbornness that got me to the start line... but damned if I was getting off before it was done."

Sunday's 100 Individual brought more drama, with swims again shortened and roads slick from rain. Steven McCulloch dominated for overall victory in the 150 GC. Alisha Pascoe topped Minkes, Jodie Brighton grabbed 2nd in her category, and Dane Roffey won his Aquabike category. Jennifer McMillan added 2nd in Aquabike, Malcolm Wesener 3rd, and Sally Tyben shone with 3rd overall female in the Barge2Beach swim the day prior. Greg Mc's day ended early after a bike spill, but he bounced back to cheer from the sidelines, embodying the club's support ethos.

Personal stories highlighted the weekend's heart. Greg Mc recounted helping a panicked swimmer mid-race: "I said, 'I’ll swim with you. Let’s go!'" Michael Daniels praised Steven's quick cramp aid: "Steve was sprinting past... pulled out a miracle cramp packet... incredible effort, very thankful for saving my race." Sherie Bates celebrated her first multi-day event: "Had a

great weekend... thanks for the support and good times." Nelly Love Sport reflected, "I had such a shit time the whole race, but you lot cheering me on really helped."

Our swim heritage was evident, with strong performances in the choppy waters reinforcing SSG's origins. As Tamara Dyer noted post-event, "Thanks everyone for making my comeback race such a great weekend! I was wanting to sell my bike Saturday... but after I recovered and spent time with such a great community I am ready to commit! I’ll even start training for the next race." The festival reignited passions and forged bonds, proving once again why SSG Multisports thrives: unbreakable support and a love for doing epic things together.

Looking ahead, many are eyeing the T100 or Mooloolaba Tri. If Hervey Bay taught us anything, it's to embrace the challenge and cheer each other on. Well done, team!