Olympic triathlete visits Pearce

No doubt the race times of Olympic triathlete Simon Thompson would improve dramatically if he could cover the course in a Hawk. Photo by CPL Gary Dixon

By FLGOFF Paul Martinovich

RAAF Base Pearce has played host to one of Australia’s newest Olympians, Simon Thompson.
Thomo, as he is known to friends and a growing number of fans, is in the three-man team for the Triathlon at the Olympics in August.

He was in Perth recently as part of the national Triathlon Series.

During his visit to Pearce, he was shown the different facets of the Air Force with visits to Ground Defence, No. 2 Flying Training School Life Support (2FTS LS), No. 79 Squadron maintenance hangar and a “solo” flight in the Hawk Simulator at 79SQN.

Ground Defence showed him through their arsenal of weapons while 2FTS LS showed what it is what like to breathe 100 per cent oxygen.

His visit to 79SQN included maintenance personnel showing him over a Hawk 127.

The visit concluded with a “healthy” meal at the base canteen where Thomo was able to talk with some of the triathletes on base about his experiences.

His visit was arranged by Sergeant Doug Stewart, Vice-President of the Australian Services Triathlon Association.

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