Posted: February 9, 2004

Triathlon: Seven Southwell's seek seven Ironman finishes

The Southwell name has been long associated with Ironman events for many years. You could call them the "First Family of Ironman" with the "President" being Bob Southwell, the 75-year-old father of five and grandfather of 14. Bob Southwell is the epitome of Ironman competitors, a man of strong character who sets an example not only to the elder statesman of the event but the youngsters who admire this age-less champion.

Bob's passion for endurance events started with Quadrathons, then short course triathlons both in Australia and overseas which saw him compete in places such as Noumea, Borneo, Tahiti, New Orleans, Las Vegas and Florida. He then moved into the long course and Ironman events, completing his first Ironman in Forster in 1993 along with four of his five sons.

Having caught the Ironman bug, he went back to Forster in 1994 and completed the course in a time of 11:49:33, which awarded him the 65-69 years age group record and a qualifying spot for the Hawaii Ironman. He went on to compete in Hawaii in October 1994 and became World Champion for the 65-69 year age group and set a world record time of 12:38:04, which still stands today.

Joining Bob at the Snap Ironman Australia triathlon on April 4, 2004 will be all of his five sons and one of his daughter-in-laws, making this year a very special event for the Southwell clan. Paul, John, Tony, Chris, Steve and Leanne are all lining up for Australia's premier endurance event that covers a 3.8km swim, 180km bike and a 42.2km run.

John, Tony and Chris have been regular competitors of the event held in Forster-Tuncurry on the coast of NSW, while Paul last raced in 1988 and Steve in 1992. The decision for all the boys to compete at this year's event was an easy one as they all wish to share the bond that finishing an Ironman creates and share in something special with their Dad. Add to the mix Leanne, who is married to Tony, and this makes the Southwell family the most represented of any other family at any other Ironman in the world.

Says family spokesman Steve Southwell, "For all of us to be on the start-line dressed in our team uniform all heading for the same finish line is going to be a moment we will all remember forever. It is something that will be discussed at Christmas dinners and birthdays for years to come and bragging rights are up for grabs so all the boys have been training hard for the event. Leanne has been in fine form also so we need to make sure we knock her off as well as the old man".

The appeal of Ironman racing around the world is that athletes of every calibre are able to line-up on the same staring line. World Champions and every day fitness buffs all strive for that elusive finish some 226km away. This year there will be seven Southwell's striving to complete a fascinating goal.

The race website is at: www.ironmanoz.com.