The 2001 St George Triathlon Australia Series got under way today with two exciting races at the 2001 Australian Sprint Championships. Young Victorian triathlete Bryce Quirk indicated he's ready to mix it with the best at the senior level with a stunning win to secure his first major national title.

Amid a talented field representing both the youth of triathlon and the established campaigners, Quirk, 22, seized the opportunity to make an impression on the sport this summer.

Out of the water with the leaders, Quirk, Chris McCormack (NSW) and Matt Reed (NZ) worked together on the bike to establish a 50-second lead onto the run. From there, Quirk was able to continue the momentum to the finish line, ahead of a fast-finishing Chris Hill (QLD), who has continued show his good form. Luke Harrop (QLD), also a rising young star, moved through the field to finish third.

I'm ecstatic! quipped Quirk. This will give me the confidence to take on some the bigger names this summer. I'm rapt!

In the women's event, Australian Olympian Loretta Harrop (QLD) signaled she's set for an exciting summer of domestic racing with a convincing off-the-front. After emerging from the swim in the front pack, Harrop worked efficiently with long-time friend and fellow Olympian Nicole Hackett (NSW) to build a 1.30 lead over the chasers on the bike, including Emma Carney (VIC). Despite Carney clawing back some time on the tear away, Harrop was never challenged on the run, taking a comfortable 28 second victory.

Prior to the win, Harrop who is currently ranked number two in the world, and who won both the 1999 world championships and world cup series in the same year, had surprisingly not won an Australian title.

The Australian Sprint Champs are always fun. We were just getting out there and going fast and furious, Harrop commented following the race. The delighted winner agreed that it was odd that she had yet to secure an Australian title. It's bizarre..so this is a big day for me, and you've got to be happy about that.

The national sprint titles set the scene for an exciting summer of racing in the 2001 St George Triathlon Australia Series.

Full Results
Women
1. Loretta Harrop (Qld) 1:01:14
2. Nicole Hackett (NSW) 1:01:42
3. Emma Carney (Vic) 1:02:25
4. Laura Reback (USA) 1:03:24
5. Melissa Ashton (NSW) 1:04:08

Men
1. Bryce Quirk (Vic) 55:52
2. Chris Hill (Qld) 56:24
3. Luke Harrop (Qld) 56:31
4. Courtney Atkinson (Qld) 56:42
5. Matt Reed (NZ) 56:48