Triathlete takes on the world
Mitchell Kibby
Monash student Mitchell Kibby is a testament to the power of hard work and ambition.
The young champion has risen meteorically to the highest echelons of his sport and was recently crowned the 2011 Open Age Australian Triathlon Champion.
His success comes after strong finishes in the last three Champion national series’ events which has allowed him to register for a professional triathlon license.
What makes Mitchell’s rise to the top so remarkable is his how he got there. Prior to competing, he had little experience in swimming or cycling.
But after being inspired while watching the Noosa Triathlon in 2007, he bought a road bike through the trading post and began training himself.
Within a year Mitchell had qualified for the Australian team to compete at the Age Group World Championships
He credits his ability to handle the gruelling training sessions while studying for a double degree in a Bachelor of Business and Commerce and a Bachelor of Sport and Outdoor Recreation to the Monash Elite Athlete Support Program.
Mitchell says the support he’s received has been brilliant and he wouldn’t have half the success he’s had without the help of the program.
“It is a great initiative and I hope it continues to help athletes in the future,” he says.
Mitchell will now focus on training for the 2011 National Championship Series to be held in Melbourne. He hopes to be selected for a professional team to compete in the US or Europe in 2011.