Talk about a star-studded line-up! Posted by Hamilton Island - 3 November 2023 Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland. We are excited to announce Tim Van Berkel & Sam Betten as our 2023 Hamilton Island Triathlon ambassadors. We’re thrilled to welcome back Susie O’Neill as our 2023 Hamilton Island Ocean Swim ambassador, and of course, it wouldn’t be a #hamiltonislandenduranceseries event without our favourite dynamic duo, emcees Andrew ‘Reidy’ Reid & Dean Degan. Get to know the team: Tim Van Berkel Credit: @koruptvision on Instagram. Tough, hard-working, and fiercely competitive, five-time IRONMAN champion Tim Van Berkel entered his first triathlon at 18 and is now considered to be one of Australia’s top IRONMAN triathletes, and globally, one of the sport’s most notable names. ‘Berks’ as he is known, turned professional at the age of 21 and has notched up a string of impressive results in triathlons at Olympic, half-Ironman and Ironman distances across Australia and internationally. This will be Tim’s first attempt at taking out the title for the Hamilton Island Triathlon. “A triathlon on Hamilton Island: where we swim, ride, and run… only to justify the extra poolside margaritas at the end of the day. While I race against the competition, the clock, and the temptation to stop and admire the beautiful scenery, there is also a strong desire to beat the king of the Whitsundays, Sam Betten.” – Tim. Sam Betten Credit: @becohlwein on Instagram. Sam has had multiple IRONMAN 70.3, half distance and Olympic distance professional race wins having been competing as a professional triathlete over a decade and a half. Sam’s resume includes multiple victories at the iconic Hell of the West Long Course Triathlon and winner of the IRONMAN 70.3 Xiamen in China. Sam is no stranger to what it takes to win in the Whitsundays, having been a 9-time winner of the Airlie Beach Triathlon. This year is set to be Sam’s second crack at the Hamilton Island Triathlon having finished 2nd back in 2014. “I’m excited to return to the Hamilton Island Triathlon this year as it truly is a bucket list race location. The stunning ocean swim, airport runway cycle leg and picture-perfect run leg finishing on the beach is quite possibly one of the most unique and beautiful courses that we have on offer in Australia. Having finished 2nd at my last trip to the Hamilton Island Triathlon, I’m hoping to climb one step higher on podium this year.” – Sam. Whilst Tim and Sam are great friends off the course, we can’t wait to see them battle it out during the Hamilton Island Triathlon. Susie O’Neill OAM (Madame Butterfly) Credit: HI Photography. As a multiple Olympic gold-medallist and valued friend of the island, Susie is always happy to compete, present, stop for photos, offer tips and chat with fellow competitors. Having only recently broken the world record for the 50m Butterfly in the 50-54-year age bracket, and with her 35 Australian titles, 8 Olympic medals, including 2 gold, and 24 gold medals in other major international competitions, she is an inspiration to athletes of all ages, and we are delighted to have her return. Andrew ‘Reidy’ Reid & Dean ‘Deano’ Degan Credit: HI Photography. Speaking of good friends, returning as our emcees for the 2023 Hamilton Island Triathlon and Ocean Swim is Reidy, best known for saving lives on the hit TV series Bondi Rescue and his partner in crime, champion triathlete Deano. The 2023 #hamiltonislandenduranceseries crew are looking forward to meeting our Triathlon and Ocean Swim competitors in just over three weeks. Haven’t registered yet? Visit https://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/endurance-series/triathlon About the Author Part of the Whitsundays, and in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, Hamilton Island is one of Australia’s most spectacular and sought-after holiday destinations. On a holiday to Hamilton Island, you'll be surrounded by pristine white beaches, and a kaleidoscope of coral and marine life.