Jones can be spotted competing in most events on the Mid North Coast, and enjoying victory in most.

He placed 21st in the British Elite Triathlon Championships in London, has won the Camden Haven King of the Mountain three times and took out the 2017 Australian Age Group Championships.

Finalists for the top award included Samet Portakaldali, Samuel Lewis, Hannah Faux, Kimberley Tout and Bradley Paterson.

“It was very exciting and very surprising as well (to win the award),” he said.

“I had no expectations but I was very honoured to be awarded such a high achievement from the community.

“Triathlon is one of the hardest sports in the world, and I train quite hard. This being my first year being nominated, to get the recognition and the win was fantastic.”

As he aims to make his mark on the professional circuit. The impressive runner even hinted at a move to half Ironman events in the near future.

“I may do the half Ironman in the next few years, but currently I’m focusing on short course,” he said.

“I have the Australian Elite Champs in Tasmania and the Australian Sprint Elite Champs in February to focus on, as well as local races like Crowdy Head and South West Rocks but nothing is set in stone yet.”

He said the people who inspired him the most growing up were his school teachers and parents.

After achieving his goal of turning pro, his next is to make it to a world championship.

“My short-term goal is to remain consistent, to be a good ambassador for my sponsors and for the Port Macquarie community,” he said. "I just absolutely love what I do.”