The first long course event was held in November of 1990 and attracted an excellent field (by the standards of the time) of 85 individuals. The local team were a little disappointed that the numbers were not higher but we were assured that the publicity that would be generated about the event and how tough it was would ensure its future success. Co-editor and 1990 competitor Barry Saw published an article in the following "Ultimate Challenge" ( Triathlon Queenslands own magazine ) that the event was a huge success and that it was "THE TOUGHEST TRIATHLON IN QUEENSLAND" which helped create the mystique and excellent reputation that surrounds the event to this day.