Tim Delahunty: On track to success at Stawell

Date: 2nd April 2025

As Easter approaches, and the anticipation surrounding the Powercor Stawell Gift ramps up, we spoke to Tim Delahunty, a strong competitor with high hopes for making the final this year. 

A familiar face at Stawell, Tim has been racing since he was 15. At his first Stawell appearance he impressed with a win in the Boys Under 17 100m in 2012. “I’ve raced at Stawell roughly 6-7 times,” Tim reminisced. “I won the Junior Stawell Gift over 10 years ago. Last year, I made it to the 200m final, which was a huge milestone for me.” 

He reflects on what makes the Stawell Gift so special: the thrill of head-to-head racing with participants who have dedicated their entire season to compete at this singular event, supported by friends and family.

This season, Tim has been actively participating in Victorian Athletic League (VAL) events, despite the challenges of travelling from Queensland. His dedication has paid off, as he won the Warrnambool Gift 120m (off 7.5m) and the Terang 70m in the same weekend, achievements that highlight his hard work over the past 18 months.

“I grew up in surf lifesaving and was a swimmer up until I was about 15,” Tim shared. “The sport changed for me after I medalled in the beach sprints at state level, and I shifted my focus to track and field.”

With a reputation as a strong contender for this year’s Stawell Gift final, Tim maintains a humble perspective on success. “I don’t get caught up in the external pressures or comparisons,” he said. “For me, it’s always been about executing my race to the best of my ability. Whatever the outcome, I’ll know I gave it my all.”

Tim attributes part of his success to his coach, Aaron Stubbs, with whom he trains closely. “For the past two years, it’s mostly just been me and Aaron as a team,” he explained. Aaron not only provides training guidance but also handles Tim’s diet, race schedule, and recovery protocols, instilling confidence in Tim’s training approach. 

“It’s good though as I have 100% confidence in the plan so it’s easy to give 100% commitment. I don’t have to worry about it what I am doing is correct or not. I can just focus on execution of the plan.”

Tim’s gym coach is none other than 2011 Stawell Gift winner Mitchell Williams Swain. “I train once a week with Mitch and he is a great person to be around to help with my technique, race tips and general life advice and help. He has been irreplaceable.

“Recently, we’ve had Tommy Bennett move up from Tasmania, which is great for training,” Tim added. “And I can’t forget to mention Jacob Despard, who has also been a fantastic help since he moved to the Gold Coast.”

Looking to the future, Tim mused, “I’m getting older now and want to squeeze the juice out of my last competitive years.”

The 27-year-old software and electrical engineer is also a musician. “My band, Brave Daisy, recently released our first single. We have been working hard for a year or so refining our sound and playing around the Byron Bay and Brisbane region.

“It’s hard sometimes fitting in my training recovery and load with gigs and practice. But it’s a great outlet and I love it.”

Tim is grateful for the support of those around him, including his girlfriend Carla Papac, a professional ironwoman who also manages to back him despite her busy training schedule. He expressed heartfelt thanks to his coach Aaron, who played a crucial role in reigniting his running career after a brief hiatus, and to his family for their unwavering support throughout his journey.

As the Stawell Gift approaches, Tim Delahunty embodies determination and passion, ready to chase his dreams on the track.

Image credit: Neil Jameson

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