In the first-ever inclusion of the paratriathlon circuit as part of this historic Sparke Helmore Newcastle City Triathlon, Lauren Parker has won gold in front of a home crowd.

The event, which doubled as the Oceania Championship, offered athletes massive points as they embark on their Tokyo 2020 campaigns.

The NSW Institute of sport athlete assisted in designing the para course, and was delighted with the win in Newcastle.

“It was very windy it was definitely tough conditions. You know that I love tough conditions that’s what racing’s about and I had my first win over Emily Tapp today – the world champ, so I’m so proud that I raced my home town and to take the win.”

The 750m swim did little to separate the Commonwealth Games silver and bronze medallists Parker and Tapp.

It was Parker who put the hammer down on the bike powering to a massive one-minute lead over the world champion despite the tricky segments, tight turns and a hill at the far end. Heading into T2 Parker had etched our a 3min lead as she headed out for the 5km run leg.

“Yeah the bike’s my strength I just had to make sure I got a massive lead before the run which is my weakest leg but that’s what I did, and I felt great today.”

It’s the first time Parker has beaten Tapp and the home-town support seemed to give her the edge.

With no time to bask in the glory of the gold, Parker will now head to Devonport, Tasmania for the ITU World Cup Paratriathlon next weekend.

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