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Welcome to Build Week #2...the pointy end of the build cycle. This is the week where the work starts to feel real. Fatigue lingers a little longer, motivation needs a nudge, and suddenly that Recovery Week ahead looks very appealing. For those racing this weekend, this week is about finishing the build with purpose, then sharpening up for race day. For our long-course athletes, this week is simply another brick in the wall...steady, consistent progression. And for some, Race #4 will be used exactly as intended: a training race, not a taper, not a peak...just a chance to practice execution under pressure. There’s real value in that. Learning how to race tired, how to manage effort, and how to stay disciplined when you’re not at your freshest is a skill that pays off later in the season. However you’re approaching this week, the key message is the same: commit to the process and complete the cycle.
🏊♂️ Race #4 (Sandy): Honest Racing AwaitsRace #4 of the 2XU Series lands this Sunday at Sandringham, and if you’ve raced there before, you already know what’s coming. This course has a reputation...and it’s earned. The swim is often testing, with open exposure and conditions that can turn quickly. The run back up to transition is a rude awakening for the legs, the bike course has a little more bite than your typical pancake-flat Beach Rd circuit, and the run takes in trails and undulations that demand more than just rhythm. They demand resilience. In short, it’s an honest race. No hiding. No freebies. And that’s exactly why we love it. We’re excited to see our athletes line up and take it on. Whether you’re racing all-out or using it as a controlled hit-out, this is a great test of where you’re at right now. 🔔 Volunteer Call-Out
As always, races don’t run themselves. Race recon kicks off from 7:00am We’ll set up the TA tent on the oval straight after Kids’ race support needed from 6:30am (briefing in kids’ transition) Pack-down help on Sunday is always appreciated
If you can lend a hand at any point, it genuinely makes a difference. Thank you in advance 💛
🚧 F1 Bump-In: Safety First, AlwaysWith the Formula 1 Grand Prix bump-in starting earlier than usual, we’re already seeing noticeable changes around Albert Park...and it’s only going to ramp up. Coach Gaz shared an important reminder last Thursday, and it’s worth repeating here for everyone: Track conditions are changing fast — closures, reduced lighting, tighter bollards, increased activity.
Arriving early, attending briefings, and riding with awareness isn’t optional — it’s essential.
In cycling, you don’t get a second chance. Complacency is expensive. This applies not just to Hot Laps, but also to accessing MSAC for swims and Tuesday night WT. Build in extra time, stay alert, and don’t skip briefings. Safety is non-negotiable.
🏊♀️ MSAC Update: Planning Ahead (Feb–March)We’ve received confirmation from MSAC that external bookings will not be available from 23 Feb to 16 March due to the extended Grand Prix race period. To be upfront...this is unusual, and yes, it’s frustrating. The upside? It’s still summer. And for us, that means open water swimming at Elwood becomes a genuine, high-quality alternative. Our plan is: Continue offering up to three swim sessions per week at Elwood Coaches will attend when numbers justify it Sessions will focus on real-world race skills: sighting, pack swimming, exits, and confidence
We also want to be fair and transparent. Athletes who prefer not to swim during this period will have the option to temporarily switch to a “without swim” membership. That’s a reasonable and ethical option, and we want to give you time to plan accordingly. More detail to come, but no surprises.
⏳ Countdown Check: Time Is Not on Your SideAs of Monday 2 February, here’s how quickly things are approaching: Race #4 – Sandringham (Sun 8 Feb)
⏱️ 6 days Carman’s Fun Run – Brighton (Sat 15 Feb)
⏱️ 1 week, 6 days Race #5 – Elwood (Sun 22 Feb)
⏱️ 2 weeks, 6 days IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo (Sun 22 Feb)
⏱️ 2 weeks, 6 days Japan Marathon (Sun 1 Mar)
⏱️ 3 weeks, 6 days IRONMAN New Zealand (Sat 7 Mar)
⏱️ 4 weeks, 5 days Gold Coast T100 Festival (21–22 Mar)
⏱️ 6 weeks, 5 days Race #6 – St Kilda / IM 70.3 Geelong (Sun 22 Mar)
⏱️ 6 weeks, 6 days
Plenty of opportunity still — but zero time for drifting.
🙋♀️ Give Back: Carman’s Fun Run VolunteersWe’ve been asked to share a great volunteer opportunity with the squad. 🗓 Carman’s Fun Run – Sunday 15 Feb
📍 Elsternwick Park, Brighton Volunteers help with drink stations and event crew support, and in return receive: If you’re racing later in the season, volunteering is a brilliant way to stay connected to race day energy while giving back to the community. 👉 Volunteer sign-up link here. Jump in if you’re keen.
🔁 Wrap-UpThis week is about finishing strong, staying alert, and thinking ahead. Build Week #2 asks for focus, Sandringham asks for grit, and the coming weeks ask for adaptability. Train smart. Stay safe. Ask questions early. And remember...there are no shortcuts. Just honest work done well.
💙💛 Team TA
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