Triathlon WA executive director Mel Farley says the 25th anniversary of the Busselton Festival of Triathlon is shaping up to be an exciting three days, with nearly 3000 participants due to take part in its biggest field since 2016.

Held from May 1-3, the sporting event will include two days of racing such as national and State championships, as well as other various events and distances for those who want to swim, bike, or run.

This year, the Busselton 100 is expected to be a highlight of the 25th anniversary celebrations, which will include the Australian long distance triathlon championships for elite, under-23, and age group athletes.

It will be the first time WA has hosted the national championships since 1997.

The Australian long distance aquabike championships for age group athletes will also be held, while new events will go beyond the Busselton 100 and Australian championships in the expanded festival.

Professionals such as Nick Thomspon and Matt Burton set to return alongside 42 of the long course legends.

Ms Farley said the return of athletes each year was a testament to the calibre of the events.

“It’s these athletes that have inspired over 1300 people to take part in the festival for the first time, including more than 750 who are participating in their very first triathlon,” she said.

“Whether that’s in the new Busselton 25 and 50 events as an individual or in a team, or our youngest athletes taking part in the Busselton 5 — that shows the Busselton Festival of Triathlon truly is an event for everyone.”

Ms Farley thanked all those who had supported the event, and AusTriathlon for bringing the Australian championships back to WA.

The festival will extend beyond racing, with an expo, social events, food trucks and more available for spectators to join in on the celebrations.

More information about the events can be found at busseltonfestivaloftriathlon.com.au.