[CDU eNews] - CHAMPION TRIATHLETE COMPETES IN ARAFURA GAMES DESPITE INJURY

[Peter.Hurt at cdu.edu.au]

Sophie runs through pain barrier

Champion Northern Territory triathlete Sophie Joynes has three cracked ribs
- but nothing short of a broken leg will prevent her competing in the
Arafura Games this month.

Sophie, 24, suffered the injury in a fall about three weeks ago.

She says: "I can't do the triathlon unfortunately, so I have entered the
half marathon and the 10,000 metre events. I shouldn't really take part at
all, I certainly don't expect to win.

"I just want to participate and I hope I don't aggravate the injury. But I
really want to be there because it's such a great atmosphere and it's here
in the Territory. I really want to compete, the weather is fantastic and,
for once, I don't have to travel!"

Athletes from more than 30 countries in the Asia-Pacific region will take
part in the Arafura Games, from May 14 to 21.

However, Sophie's main focus this year is the 2005 World Triathlon
Championships in Hawaii in October . . . and she says any help with
sponsorship would be most appreciated!

Sophie trains more than 20 hours a week for the gruelling 1.5km swim, 40km
cycle and 10km run event and competes in the Victorian and national
triathlon circuit between November and April, travelling down south every
second week.

Somehow, Sophie also finds time to work as a fitness and recreation
coordinator with Charles Darwin University Sport, conducting personal
training and fitness classes ranging from the challenging Boot Camp to
Disabled. She recently launched a new Spin Class.

Sophie joined CDU last year after four years in the Army where she
conducted physical training lessons and also completed her fitness
Certificates III and IV through the University.

Her aim is to turn her triathlon career into a fulltime professional
activity. Last year she won a silver medal in the 20-24 age group at the
World Triathlon Championships in Portugal.


Sophie Joynes is available for interview



Peter Hurt
Media Manager
Charles Darwin University
Tel: 08 8946 6019 or 0438 466 439

CRICOS Provider No: 00300K