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KELLY GOOD, RAY WHITE WANAKA, NZ
Ray White Wanaka business owner Kelly Good had competed in an array of different challenging sporting events which include swimming, running and cycling including triathlons, Coast to Coast, Spring Challenge, and most recently the Aquabike.
What kind of racing do you do? What’s involved?
I've competed in all things from triathlon, to adventure multi sport racing, but my most recent endeavors have been in the Aquabike, which is a 3km swim in the open water generally, and then a 120km bike. Unfortunately I have an injury that sort of prevented the running aspect of the full triathlon. Last year, I qualified in New Zealand and went to the world championships for the Aquabike, which was held in Townsville in August.
How did you get into it?
When the kids were younger I thought I wanted to get back into some form of sports so I competed in Challenge Wanaka, which was a half Ironman. That threw the passion back into the triathlon space where I had competed previously.
I enjoyed participating in all three of the disciplines and having a variety of training, but it also just gave me an individual challenge rather than just focusing on work and children all the time. The motivation to achieve and strive for something in front of the kids is huge - it’s that ‘monkey see, monkey do’ mentality.
How have you fared in the competitions? What have been the highlights?
I came ninth at the world championships last year in the Aquabike in Townsville, and in the Spring Challenge in 2022 I came third in the veteran category. The competitions are great and provide me with a focus and motivation to train and get out the door. I am often nervous on the start line but as my physio once said to me, ‘nerves are great, they are a sign that you want to perform’. So embracing the nerves and using them without letting them take over is a great challenge..
Any tips for people who might want to try it out?
Just choose something small to start and set the goal, make it something you are passionate about and that you enjoy. Over the years, I have moved from events that mean I’m flying solo to ones which are more about adventure and the journey to get there. Time is so precious nowadays so the time spent doing the sort of training and commitment required needs to be fun - pull in friends or family to get involved as well.
MATT LANCASHIRE, RAY WHITE COLLECTIVE, QLD
Ray White Collective selling principal Matt Lancashire recently ran a gruelling marathon in the icy cold temperatures of Alaska.
What was involved in running a marathon in Alaska?
Running a marathon in Alaska was a challenge due to many unknown factors. The extreme cold (-5°C) and icy terrain were difficult to prepare for, as I had never run in such conditions before. Buying the right gear was essential. Training was the most important part, but arriving a few days early helped familiarise us with the terrain. Despite all the preparation, it was tough because it was something completely new.
How did you get into it?
My friend Lachlan Stewart, who has completed extreme endurance challenges before, told me about his plan to run 58 marathons in 58 days across all 50 US states and Australia. When I asked where he would start, he said Alaska on January 22. Without hesitation, I booked my flight. Lachlan is now halfway through, having completed 27 marathons.
What did your training block look like?
The training block was intense and lasted 14 weeks. I ran between 40 and 100km per week, balancing short, fast runs; interval training, and long runs. I also incorporated pilates and functional strength training to build overall endurance.
Recovery was just as important - massages, stretching, saunas, and ice baths helped manage fatigue and prevent injuries.
How did the race go?
It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. The terrain was unexpectedly difficult as I had only trained on roads. The freezing temperature was manageable, but the 30km/h winds made it feel even colder. We faced ice, snow, wind, and rain, making conditions brutal. At the 16km mark, I rolled my ankle severely, forcing me to change my running style and complete the remaining 26km on my heel. This led to hip flexor and knee pain, but despite the setbacks, finishing the marathon was an incredibly rewarding experience.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to run a marathon?
Preparation is everything. Many people try to go from little to no running to a marathon, which can be very difficult. If you’re a beginner, I recommend following a 20-week training plan, while more experienced runners can prepare in 12-14 weeks. Nutrition and hydration are crucial - calorie intake should increase, and hydration must be consistent. Running a marathon is tough, but crossing the finish line is an incredible feeling that makes all the effort worthwhile.
TOM BARR, RWC QUEENSLAND, QLD
With a background competing in triathlons, RWC Queensland managing director Tom Barr has found a new passion for HYROX. After competing in his first event in 2024, he’s hooked.
What is involved in HYROX?
HYROX is an indoor hybrid endurance event which combines both running and functional workout stations, where participants run 1km, followed by one functional workout station, repeated eight times.
How did you get into it?
Having competed in my younger days at an elite level in the sport of triathlon, fitness training is something I have always enjoyed and is part of my life. About seven or eight years ago, I started hybrid and HIIT training. The concept of HYROX was founded about five years ago in Europe and came to Australia for the first time in 2024. Last year, I raced in Brisbane (doubles with my brother Nick) and then Melbourne (single). I have also completed one competition in Brisbane this year.
What does your training look like?
I train four to six times a week which comprises 45-60 minute sessions which vary between HIIT, MetCon, strength, and cardio. I also run four times per week, typically about 10km per session.
Any tips for people who might want to try it out?
The beauty of HYROX is that the sport caters for people of all ages and levels of fitness. HYROX is a sport for you whether you are just starting out in your fitness journey, just want to give it a go and have some fun, or are a serious athlete. Additionally, you can choose your desired race format being singles (individual), doubles (team of two), and relay (team of four).
JOSH HARRIS, RWC NOOSA AND SUNSHINE COAST, QLD
RWC Noosa and Sunshine Coast agent Josh Harris had a last-minute call up to participate in New Zealand’s Kathmandu Coast to Coast race this year, filling in for a team in the kayak portion of the race, giving him just 30 days to get race ready. But it’s not his first time competing in the multisport event.
What is involved in the Coast to Coast?
The multisport event involves a two-day, 243km bike, run, and kayak race from Kumara Beach on the South Island to New Brighton Beach in Christchurch on the South Island. You can compete in the Coast to Coast as an individual or as a team. This year was the first time I’ve done it as a team as I’ve always completed it individually.
How did you get into it?
I was introduced to the sport back in 2009 where I crewed for a mate and just loved it! I had a background in Ironmans and I competed in my first individual Coast to Coast race in 2011, as well as completing individual races in 2014 and 2015, and winning the tandem race with a mate, Dave Slater, in 2020. I hadn’t planned on competing this year, but I was about to start training for the 2026 Coast to Coast.
What does your training look like?
Training is around 20 hours a week and will get up towards 30 hours throughout the year. I work through the day and then look to train late in the afternoon and evenings.
How did you do in the competitions?
Throughout my racing days I have won multiple different races through Ironman and multisport. My biggest claim to fame is beating All Blacks rugby great Richie McCaw and Rob Nichol to win the Coast to Coast tandem race in 2020. Nowadays, I just love doing it and trying to push myself as hard as I can.
Any tips for people who might want to try it out?
Anyone wanting to get involved or start in the sport, the best way is to get involved is via crewing or supporting and you just fall in love with the sport. It’s a great sport where the fastest and the slowest all race together and we all support each other.
