In December the Compton's travelled to the National Marathon Titles for single and double outrigger canoes in Coffs Harbour on the north coast of NSW and were victorious against competiters up to 25 years younger than themselves.

Forced to compete in the Masters category for rowers aged 35-45 after there were not enough entrants in their age group, the two still managed to come out on top.

Asked if it had felt satisfying to win in conditions that some would suggest were slightly out of their favour, Mrs Compton laughed and answered simply, "yes, it just goes to show it's never too late".

The Compton's began canoeing only 12 months ago after Mrs Compton met rowers from the Port Stephens Outrigger Club and decided to see what it was all about.

"I did 12 Iron Man Triathlon's and needed a change," she said.

"I went along one day and loved it from the start."

After Mr Compton had seen his wife on the water and also felt the itch, the two began rowing together.

Although clearly competitive, Mrs Compton also notes the social aspect of the sport, "we're starting to recognise faces, especially the older people, and we get together and exchange notes."

Joining them in Coffs Harbour was Dylan Nicholson, 17, who finished third overall in the under 19 category finishing in just over 52 minutes.