Darren was a long-standing member of CTC and was a wonderful contributor to the
energy and culture of the club, in terms of his encouragement and support of other club members.
He was himself a keen and competitive triathlete.
Darren was well known in the local area, and was employed as the PE teacher at
North Strathfield primary school; and was very well respected and loved by the kids.
Unknown to Darren, he had a heart condition that had at times caused his some concern,
but was never diagnosed. In January 2006, whilst Darren was down at Manly beach running,
he suffered a fatal heart attack. Darren was aged 30.
Darren is remembered via a Memorial Event each year at Concord Tri Club, and by the awarding of a trophy,
known as the Darren Wilson Encouragement Award. It is given to a club-member that best typifies Darren's
spirit of encouragement and willingness to help others, to inspire and to strive to be their best.
Previous Darren Wilson Award winners include :
2008/2009 Chris Sayers
2007/2008 Kelly Murphy
2006/2007 Sarah Maguire
Michael Atkins Memorial
Michael was an extremely gifted athlete, who tragically passed away in a cycling accident on 23 November 2001.
Long standing members of the club will remember not only Michael's outstanding ability,
but also his eagerness to lend advice and encouragement to members of the club of all
abilities both during and post race. Michael was one of the great personalities of the club,
that has shaped the tone and attitude of CTC today.
Shortly before his passing, Michael competed in the Forster Half Ironman in the 18-24 age
group where he finished in a time of 4.11.13 which placed him first in the 18-24 age group,
but also first age-grouper across the line overall in front of 15 professional male triathletes.
Amongst the competitors that Michael beat were Luke Bell and Pete Jacobs,
both of whom have gone on to become well recognised Australian triathletes.
In memory of Michael, the first male and female age group across the line at the
Port Macquarie Half Ironman receive the Michael Atkins Perpetual Trophy, and the
first Concord Triathlon Club member across the line at the Australian Ironman receives
the much desired Michael Atkins trophy.
To acknowledge Michael's willingness to encourage other competitors of all levels, the memorial aquathon
event is time handicapped, with a net (of handicap) winner to be announced.
In this way, it should give everyone a chance at first place.
For 2009/2010, the course is the Duke Avenue Aquathon (from Drummoyne Pool)
which is a 500 metre swim followed by a 5.6 km out and back run on the Drummoyne Bay.
This is the same length and configuration of the old Cabarita Bay "Palace" aquathon,
which is no longer part of our calendar, but was Michael's favourite course.
