Dozens of Orange women turn out for Sandy Ostini Ladies Event

Held at Gosling Creek Reserve on Saturday, more than two dozen women from around Orange dressed up to take part in the 200 metre swim, 8.8km bike ride and 2km run to raise money and awareness for the Cancer Council.

Orange Cycle and Triathlon Club secretary and event organiser Carolyn Egan said it was a fantastic day and was pleased by the turnout.

"We had 28 ladies enter and in comparison to other local events that was really strong," she said.

"There were a fair few newbies, so ladies who had never done a triathlon ever before which was wonderful. But there were also some regulars and ladies who only do that event once a year with us. The weather was amazing, although the water was still a bit cold."

The day paid tribute to Ostini who died in 2018 after a battle with cancer and who was a long-time supporter of the OCTC.

Egan said the event wasn't about coming first or last, but instead about getting out and giving the sport a crack.

"I love the fact that the community gets behind her to honour her, it's wonderful to see," she said.

"It's about breaking down the barriers and making people realise that triathlon is achievable for all ages.

"We had ladies under 18 and our oldest competitor was 71, so it's a sport you can do for as long as you're mobile to keep you fit and healthy. That comradery across the generations is something really special."

As well as raising awareness for the Cancer Council, the day raised nearly $600 for the charity, with more donations still expected.

Asked what she enjoyed most about the day, Egan said: "I think seeing so many ladies really enjoying themselves, but on the same side, pushing themselves.

"We were able to modify the course for a few that weren't up for running the distance and there was a few that didn't want to swim, there were a few who swam in flippers and that was absolutely, perfectly acceptable.

"It's a challenge, those three disciplines one after the other. Then to see their faces as they finish across the line, to be given a glass of champagne, that was just wonderful."

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