From Crash to Comeback - Olivia Eyes Success at UniSport Nationals Triathlon
Published Wed 23 Apr 2025
University of Adelaide student Olivia Bittner, is preparing to take on the sprint triathlon at this year’s UniSport National Triathlon event in Wollongong NSW from 26-27 April, where she’ll compete in a 750m swim, 20km cycle, and 5km run. A passionate and determined athlete, Olivia is excited to represent the University of Adelaide on the national stage.
Now in her fourth year of a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honours), Olivia balances her studies with an intense training schedule. “There’s been a lot of swimming, cycling, running, and strength training,” she says. Each week, she averages around 5,000m of swimming, 100km of cycling, 20km of running, and two strength sessions with her club, Flow Endurance, led by coach Chris Rawlings.
Olivia's journey into triathlon began in high school back in 2017, when she competed as part of a team event in Tasmania. Years later, while doing team triathlons with friends in Adelaide, she entered a solo sprint triathlon and finished 16th among the female competitors. “I was contacted by a triathlon club afterwards,” she recalls. “But I ended up joining Flow Endurance, which was closer to home - and I’ve loved training with them ever since.”
Despite the rigorous physical demands of the sport, Olivia manages to maintain a balance between her academic, athletic, and personal life. “I’m thankful that most of the triathlon race season is during uni holidays,” she explains. “I try to keep my priorities in check. Training gives me perspective as a future physiotherapist, and I love that some of it I can do with friends.”
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Representing the University of Adelaide in Wollongong is a milestone for Olivia, especially given the prestige of the course. “I feel privileged to be competing... and I’m excited to see what I can do at this fun interstate course which is where the World Championship Finals for triathlon will be held later this year.”
Her goals for the Nationals are both ambitious and strategic. She hopes to finish in the top 10 for the female sprint and is focusing on performing well in the open water swim, which will be rougher than the waters she’s used to in Adelaide. For the run leg, she’s aiming for an average pace of 4:25 minutes per kilometre.
One of Olivia’s proudest achievements to date came earlier this season at Victor Harbor, where she placed first in her age group and second overall among female competitors. But the result was about far more than podium finishes. It marked a powerful comeback after a life-altering accident in 2024, when she was struck by a car while out cycling.
“It was quite the recovery process,” she reflects. “There were a lot of tough days, both physically and mentally, and I had to rebuild my confidence on the bike. I’m so thankful for the team of healthcare professionals and supporters who were with me every step of the way.”
Returning to the same course where she had once completed her first ever sprint triathlon made the achievement all the more meaningful.
“That race felt like a real comeback — it reminded me why I love this sport.”
As for race-day rituals, Olivia keeps things practical and familiar. “I’m a big fan of oats in the morning before the race, so I make them the night before,” she informs, which shows that success can start with something as simple as a good breakfast!
Looking ahead, Olivia’s ambition continues to grow. She’s signed up for the Gold Coast Marathon in July and has her eye on tackling an Ironman 70.3 in 2026. Yet despite the big races and personal goals, her philosophy remains grounded. “My long-term dream is to keep moving outdoors for the rest of my life.”
With a mindset shaped by resilience, gratitude, and a love of movement, Olivia is more than ready to take on UniSport Nationals Triathlon - and whatever challenges come next.
Olivia Bittner is representing the University of Adelaide at this year’s UniSport Nationals Triathlon event in Wollongong NSW. We wish Olivia all the very best in the event as she takes on some of the nation’s top university athletes. Stay tuned for updates as the competition unfolds.
