South West Academy of Sport athlete Connor Fraser is riding high after being officially recognised by Triathlon WA for a season of standout efforts that led to him stepping on to the podium at more than one event.
The Gelorup teenager finished runner-up Junior Triathlete of the Year (14-15 year male) category at the 2022-23 Triathlon Western Australia Annual Awards in Perth at the weekend.
The Junior Triathlete of the Year Series is comprised of a number of races specifically selected for junior triathletes aged between 12 and 19.
Awards are presented to the three highest point scoring male and female athletes in each of the junior age groups.
“I was amazed. I was pretty shocked,” Connor said.
“I kind of had just thought I was up there with all the other guys, but I didn’t think I was going to come in second.
“Really, it’s all about consistency and just trying to hold a steady race, trying to hold the same position for each race — and go harder every race.
“This year has probably been my biggest season I’ve ever competed in.”
Connor can proudly reflect on the results he has achieved over the season, including podium finishes in recent high-profile events.
In proof that the results earned on home soil are sometimes the ones that mean the most, Connor is especially pleased with the third placing he earned in the 14-15 age category and seventh overall in the Busselton Foreshore Triathlon – Sprint event.
With top placings in an iconic event close to home, the competition proved to be one of the biggest highlights of the season for Connor.
Another standout moment was winning the 14 to 15 age group category at the Rockingham Foreshore Triathlon’s Fremantle Ports Enticer in February.
The Bunbury Catholic College student was appreciative of the assistance offered through the SWAS Individual Athlete Support Program.
“SWAS has helped me so much, just by training and all my fitness testing,” Connor said.
“Lowen Ferry has been really good with everything in that sense being the new athlete mentor.”
The young cyclist also thanked SWAS chief executive Bernice Butlion, coach Ryan Bailie and the team at Dynamic Allied Health.