Whaia te iti kahurangi, A community TRI-ing together
Meet our Coaches
RUSSELL SMITH
Russell is both a Triathlon NZ Level 1 and Swim Smooth coach who is based in Hamilton. He has been competing in triathlon and endurance sports for over 30 years and coaching for the last 10 year
COACHING QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
- Swim Smooth qualified coach
- Triathlon NZ Level 1 coach
- Over 30 years’ experience
- Over 10 years coaching experience
MIKE WRIGHT
Mike started competing in triathlon in his 30’s after signing up for Ironman NZ as his first triathlon event (first time was postponed due to broken bone weeks out from the race). After signing up for Ironman he decided on a shorter distance and entered Rotorua Half Ironman (aptly named 'Suffer'). It rained all day, he got a puncture & his clip on aero bar extensions separated from his bike. That day he discovered endurance events seldom go to plan & that elusive 'perfect race' is a hard nut to crack.
Since then, Mike has become a 6x finisher at Ironman NZ - PB of 9:25, 2x Kona finisher - PB of 9:44, 20+ half Ironman’s - PB of 4:18, & many shorter distances.
Mike has achieved this while working full time & raising a young family & he understands the time pressures & commitments being competitive requires.
Mike holds his Tri NZ coaching qualification & is keen to help others find enjoyment & long term involvement & success in the sport. Foot Traffic Coaching
