Last year he received a scholarship to the Illawarra Academy of Sport (IAS). This year he has made the triathlon national team.
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Highlands Triathlon Club member, Liam Hinchcliffe has improved immensely since receiving his IAS scholarship.
He focused on the weaknesses in his game and has become a stronger triathlete.
"My cycling has improved a lot since last year," Hinchcliffe said.
"I'm now up with the top guys in the cycling, but the swim is still taking a little time to improve on.
"I am getting a little better but I haven't been swimming for very long, so getting the muscle strength I need for the swim is taking some time."
From a great 2018 season with the IAS to the excellent start to 2019 with the invitation to the national team, Hinchcliffe seems to be on top of the world.
"It felt really great making the national team. It's my first time on the team and it's such a high level of achievement," Hinchcliffe said.
"I'm pretty stoked to be competing with the team."
The NSW All Schools Triathlon determined who would make the national team.
Hinchcliffe and the other competitors knew what was at stake. Only the top performers would make the cut.
"Before the race, the top six to finish overall would be offered a spot on the national team," Hinchcliffe said.
"Once I came across the line in second, I knew I was definitely in."
If I could influence someone to get an interest in the sport, that would be a success.
- Liam Hinchcliffe
Triatholon competitors can be viewed in the same vein as tennis players. It's a solo sport with no team mates to fall back on. Creating friendships along the way is an important aspect of the sport.
"I'm actually really hoping to bond with some other athletes," Hinchcliffe said.
"When you're in the race you don't really think about anyone else.
"You're in your own mindset but I do spend a lot of time with other athletes outside of racing so it's great to get to know other sportsmen and become friends with them.
"I just want to do my best and get a great result up in Queensland."
Besides doing his best, Hinchcliffe has another goal for his time while he's apart of the national team.
"I'm hoping to get my name out there and get some exposure," Hinchcliffe said.
"I also want to represent the sport well out there. If I could influence someone to get a interest that would be a success."
There is one obstacle standing in the way of Liam and his nationals dream. He needs to raise some money in order to pay for his trip.
"I'm fundraising for my trip because it's a bit pricey," Hinchcliffe said.
"I'm needing help on the flights and the uniform costs. I'm hoping the fundraising will help me out."
If you would like to help out Liam get to nationals you can donate at: https://www.gofundme.com/nationals-triathlon.
- Do you have a great sport story you’d like to share? Email our sportswriter, Matthew Welch with your ideas at: matt.welch@fairfaxmedia.com.au.