But the Albury triathlete says he has rarely felt more satisfied than when he crossed the finish line to take out the Nail Can Hill Run last year.

“When you tell yourself you want to achieve something, no matter how big or small, it’s always such a rewarding feeling when you plan and then succeed,” Featonby said.

“Winning last year was incredibly satisfying and it was great to win in front of my family and local sponsors who have stood by me for many years.

“It was definitely the springboard to my successful season as I discovered a new sense of confidence which I had never before experienced.”

Featonby, who was a member of the Australian team at the World Cup Triathlon in Mooloolaba earlier this month, took out last year’s race in 38:16.

It was the second time he’s raced in the Nail Can Hill run.

“I really wished I competed in the event when I was a kid but I honestly remember thinking I wasn’t good enough to even make it to the finish,” he said.

“I still think it’s a shame the course doesn’t finish along the iconic Murray River any more as the event could really be the leading community participation event held in the region.

“The region has lost the Festival of Sport, Dash for Cash and Multisport Albury City events so it’s great to see Nail Can get a lot of backing from the local sporting groups and continue to grow from year to year.

“The event also gives great support to ASPECT Australia.

“I work as an education support staff member at Wodonga South Primary School and get to see the challenges that children with an austism spectrum disorder face every day so it’s rewarding to support them.”