Athlete’s Guide to New Zealand

Adventurer and now New Zealand-based athlete Luke Yates, “newly enamoured with the country”, explains why the Land of the Long White Cloud is perfectly suited for endurance adventures in an article for IRONMAN.

“Mythical stories aside, New Zealand is home to one of the oldest and best-loved IRONMAN events in the world, not to mention some of the most stunning races imaginable. It’s also the country I now call home; the pull of this incredible place was so strong that I packed up my life in Vancouver, B.C., and headed south to immerse myself in the outdoor Kiwi lifestyle,” Yates writes.

“‘New Zealand possesses a charm that feels lost in other parts of the world,’ says Dan Horton, founder of triathlon travel company TriAdventuresNZ and finisher of multiple IRONMAN events. ‘The pace of life here feels natural and relaxed but not inefficient. People are kind and welcoming, and as a traveller, you feel safe.’

“It’s no exaggeration to say that New Zealand is a paradise for training for endurance sport. Just look at the number of top competitors this small nation produces.

“In addition, the range of training options are awesome. ‘Diversity is one of New Zealand’s strengths. Swapping salt water for fresh or tarmac for trail is easy, and will help keep the long training days interesting,’ Horton says.

“The diversity, quality, and heritage of the events on offer in New Zealand is unparalleled, but the jewel in the crown of the country’s races has to be IRONMAN New Zealand. The race will be celebrating its 35th year in 2019 and it’s the experience as much as the scenic course that make this event remarkable.”

Original article by Luke Yates, IRONMAN, May 10, 2018.