Holmes, 20, of Gawler, marked her return to elite level triathlon with a second place in the female open category of Race Two of Triathlon South Australia’s 2011/2012 State Series, held in perfect conditions at Victor Harbor.

Competing in her first triathlon in more than 18 months, Holmes exited the 750m swim leg in third place, before moving into second place on the 20km bike leg.

Holmes then ran strongly to finish closely behind Maria Kosztovits in the Franklin Island sprint distance triathlon looking comfortable throughout the 5km run leg.

Holmes said she was excited to be back racing after stepping out of the sport last season to complete university studies.

“I’m really happy to get the first race out of the way,” she said.

Holmes is preparing for events in February and March 2012 to qualify for the ITU World Triathlon Championship in New Zealand in 2012.

Her next race is the State Aquathlon Championships on December 27.