Ford took out the senior division of the multi-discipline race in 54 minutes and 55 seconds on Sunday, 13 seconds clear of his nearest rival, David Robertson (0:55.08), with Tony Anderson (0:56.14) in third.

He established a solid lead early after recording a sizzling 0:06.17 split in the 450 metre swim and a strong effort in the 18 kilometre bike ride.

Heavy legs let his rivals peg back the gap during the final four kilometre run at Maitland Park, but it wasn’t enough to deny Ford line honours.

The win cemented Ford’s early lead in the season point score for the male 35-44 years category, coming on the back of his third placing in the season opener last month.

Rain also failed to deter a special group of first-time triathletes, with members of Maitland PCYC’s Life Changer Challenge taking part in the event.

Club fitness co-ordinator Jane Osborne said it was inspiring to watch the participants dive into the world of triathlons.

“It was awe inspiring for me watching all these people we’d seen grow and change stepping up to the plate and finishing this event,” she said.

“It was such an overwhelming and emotional experience for some that they finished in tears - they just couldn’t believe they’d got there.”

Osborne thanked the club for its support and encouragement of their challenge participants.