Damien’s Xterra incentive

Corporal Damien Enderby training with his coach and source of inspiration, wife Jenny.

By Ben Caddaye

LIKE most blokes, marriage has changed Corporal Damien Enderby for the better.
But it’s not just his personal life that has benefited from his partnership with wife, Jenny – his sporting life has also taken off.

Damien had always enjoyed running, cycling and mountain biking, but it wasn’t until he met Jenny that he began competing in triathlons – a move that would eventually lead him into the gruelling world of Xterra.

Since then, Damien has recorded some excellent results in both disciplines, finishing second in last year’s ADF Triathlon Championships, third in his age group in last year’s Australian Xterra Championships and third in the NSW State Triathlon Championships.

And he said he owed all his recent success to one person.

“I have my wife to thank for all my success as she is the one who coaches me and pushes me to train hard, even when I don’t feel like it.”

Jenny’s influence has continued to produce results this year.

Last month, Damien, from RAAF Base Williamtown, lifted the bar a notch, breaking through for his first Xterra win.

Competing at the 2003 Australian Xterra Championships at the Penrith Regatta Centre, Damien finished first in the 25-29 years age group, beating a host of super-fit rivals from across the country.

This year’s Xterra comprised a 1.5km swim, 30km mountain bike ride and an 11km run.

In fine, warm conditions, Damien started slowly, emerging from the swim about five minutes behind the leading pack.

“For me the swim is always tough as I don’t enjoy swim training and consequently don’t train for this leg,” Damien admitted.

As was his race plan, he quickly made up ground in the bike leg, riding himself into second place despite the tough terrain.

“The bike leg was over a tough course, as it was all on long grass which took a lot of strength.”

It clearly didn’t drain all Damien’s strength, however, as he powered to the lead in the final run leg to win by more than a minute.

“The run was good in the early stages but the tough bike leg took its toll in the latter stages.”

His first placing qualifies him for this year’s Xterra World Championships, but a challenge of another kind means Damien will stay at home this year.

“My wife and I are expecting a baby in November and that is much more important.”

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