Clinch won gold in the 30-34 age category at the world championships in Switzerland and jumped to the No. 1 ranking in the world after the shock result.

She was one of several Canberra athletes to taste success on the international stage, with Angharad Llewellyn winning the 25-29 age group sprint distance.

Grace Hoitink won silver in the standard distance event for the 20-24 age group, while Yoann Colin claimed bronze in the men's standard 20-24 age group.

Clinch's effort was perhaps the most impressive after deciding to start doing triathlons in June last year.

There was initial confusion when officials thought she had finished second, but they clarified the result and Clinch was declared the winner after a two-hour wait.

"I think I managed to get a smile on the carpet this time, usually it's a serious face as I'm running down. Just to take a moment and take it all in was incredible," Clinch said.

Clinch had a slow start to the race, coming out of the water in 14^th position, but powered home during the run and bike legs to win the event.

"I had a really terrible start with my arms and legs pulling me down. I just had to steady myself and focus."

Llewellyn finished her race with a time of 1:09:16, in an event which consisted of a 750 metre swim, 20 kilometre cycle and 5 kilometre run.

Llewellyn, who is coached by Olympian Megan Hall, finished second at the world championships on the Gold Coast last year.

"I kind of knew what I was in for in terms of nerves and getting ready for the race. I think it's no different to any other race you do, except it's got the title of world champs and everyone's just really hyped," Llewellyn said.

"My coach Megan Hall and I have worked hard for the last 3 years to make this dream a reality. While triathlon is an individual sport, it has been a big team effort to get to today."

There were 23 Canberra triathletes competing over the three days of competition.