Tuynman has recently been involved in teams triathlon racing with her family – completing the bike leg – but for the first time in 30 years has completed all three legs of a race herself.

After encouragement from family and friends Tuynman entered the 300 metre swim, 10km bike and 2km run with a goal in mind.

“I made myself a deal when I entered that I wouldn’t leave there without a medal,” she said.

“In the end there was just three minutes between myself and gold.

“Being the super sprint you’ve got to go out hard and quick. I’ve done teams racing with [husband] Keith and [daughter] Brooke before but I had to train hard to get my swim and run going strong.”

Tuynman finished the course in 52 minutes and five seconds.

Her splits were 6:13 (swim), 23:52 (bike) and 18:29 (run).

Tuynman said she’s gained a lot of confidence from the event.

“My friend and world champion Sally Taggart inspired me to set a goal for myself to compete in this race,” she said.

“I’ve had a lot of support from my family and close friends.

“I was a bit nervous and anxious before the start and I had to overcome a lot of demons to do this race. I wanted to prove to myself that I could do this.”

Taggart was third overall in the ultimate distance event and 50-54 years winner.