- Star competed in two Olympic games
An Aussie Olympian has revealed she will take part in a difficult triathlon days after enduring a heartbreaking miscarriage.
The 34-year-old, who has represented her country at two Olympics, has now announced on social media.
She revealed why she was competing in an event in Qatar days after her heartbreaking experience.
‘I’ll be lining up at the grand final here in Qatar after experiencing a miscarriage last week at around seven weeks pregnant,’ she wrote on Instagram.
‘It’s not something I’d ever wish on anyone… [and] I’ve been overwhelmed with emotions.’
‘Honestly, I felt a little crazy still getting on my original flight to Doha.’
Ash Gentle (pictured) has attempted to provide inspiration to any woman enduring a similarly tragic event
Gentle (pictured) experienced the miscarriage when she was 7 weeks pregnant
‘I could so easily share a different story and pretend everything has been perfect, but it’s exhausting, and the reality is that life doesn’t always unfold the way we hope,’ she added.
‘There should be absolutely no shame in experiencing a miscarriage- so many women go through it, yet it can feel incredibly isolating.’
Her social media update has since been met with support from her fellow competitors.
‘I’m so sorry Ash. Your strength in sharing this will help so many others who’ve been through the same,’ wrote British triathlete Sophie Coldwell.
‘I’m so sorry. Words can’t express my admiration of you for sharing,’ added fellow competitor Jocelyn McCauley.
“(It’s) always difficult, sending a big hug,’ stated Olympic champion Nicola Spirig.
Gentle took part in competitions at the 2016 and 2020 Olympics.
She finished 26th in an individual event in Rio and came ninth in the mixed relay in Tokyo.
The 34-year-old (pictured) is the Noosa Triathlon’s most decorated champion
Gentle is married to fellow triathlete Josh Amberger (both pictured)
The 34-year-old is an 11-time Noosa Triathlon champion and has won the past 10 editions of the Queensland event.
Gentle discovered the heartbreaking news while her husband Josh Amberger was in Chile racing the last triathlon of his career.
The pair have been married for more than three years.
Gentle’s results this weekend will be purely for academic purposes, with the sporting world saluting the triathlete for her strength.