The Australian couple’s mid-marathon marriage on the shore of Lake Wanaka was celebrated by nearly 100 friends and family, many of whom crossed the Ditch to Wanaka to share the moment.
The triathlon-mad couple went on to finish their race, crossing the line together escorted by their wedding entourage.
Back then, the couple were racing the full-distance race of 3.8km swim, 180km bike ride and 42km marathon.
This weekend, the couple were back, with their 9-year-old daughter, Estelle, to renew their vows during the Challenge Wanaka Half, a 1.9km swim, 90km cycle and 21km run.
Mr Smoothy, racing in the 60-64 age-group, completed his triathlon in 8hr 3min 31sec, with Coe, in the 50-54 age-group, not far behind her husband in 8hr 12min 13sec.
"Challenge Wanaka has always been special to us. It’s more than a race, it’s a place where lifelong friendships are forged and where Alyssa and I took one of the biggest steps of our journey together," Mr Smoothy said.
Mr Smoothy has participated in triathlons for more than 40 years, with 53 full iron-distance events in 22 countries under his belt, including 12 Challenge Wanaka races.
His wife has also embraced the sport and travelled to many endurance events around the world.
Mr Smoothy is also the driving force behind Smiling for Smiddy, an Australian cancer charity named in memory of triathlete Adam Smithy.
The charity has raised more than $13million for cancer research.
— APL
