22/10/2026
TOM-GEORGE RIPS IT, IN HIS 5K TIME TRIAL!
Tom-George Speed is an emerging U23 elite triathlete looking to establish himself within the Australian Triathlon Performance pathway. Having bypassed the traditional junior pathway, Tom-George has only been seriously pursuing triathlon for around two years, making his progress all the more impressive.
AusTri recently conducted performance trials at USC, giving athletes the opportunity to record key performance indicators relevant to elite performance standards.
Tom-George excelled in the 5km run time trial, clocking an outstanding 14:35. Leading from the first step to the finish, he delivered a dominant performance, averaging 2:55 per kilometre with remarkably consistent pacing.
Earlier this year, he recorded 14:40 at a USC track meet, confirming that this level of running is no fluke. Even more impressive is that these performances have come off relatively low mileage, with 40km representing a big training week. Clearly, Tom-George has some serious horsepower!
The run was preceded by an 800m swim time trial, a distance notoriously difficult to pace. While Tom-George was a little disappointed with his 10:00, it represents significant improvement on where he was just six months ago.
We believe a substantial breakthrough in the pool is only a matter of time. Tom-George recognises the need to improve his swimming and is embracing the challenge. His technique is refining, his body position is longer through the water, his rhythm is improving, and he has corrected a tendency to overkick. The signs are encouraging.
It is a shame there was no bike time trial, as that would have provided another opportunity to showcase a further strength in his triathlon arsenal!
Next up is the Noosa Triathlon, followed by the Queensland State 5km Track Championships a month later, before he turns his attention to races on the Performance Calendar.
Tom-George is an exciting talent with plenty of upside. We look forward to seeing what comes next.
Well done, Tom-George!
