James Owen

Training for a number of running and triathlon events on the way to Ironman New Zealand in March 2017. My goal is to learn about the three disciplines involved and the techniques and training required to produce my personal best performance. I think that your ‘best performance’ goal changes as you learn and progress, so who knows what that might be just yet!

What it is your motivation for wanting to achieve this?

Change! I’ve only played one sport before and after 12 years I thought it was time to try something else. The idea of endurance sports really appeals because of the planning and mental components that make up your preparation and ultimately your race. Also, the race goes on for ages so you cover long distances and test yourself mentally and physically.

What is your background and how did you get into your sport?

I started running before going on holiday 18 months ago. I wanted to tone up a bit for the beach so I started walking to the local petrol station 3km away where I rewarded myself with an Up&Go and a chocolate bar….after 4 weeks of walking this turned into a shuffle, then a jog and eventually a steady run. Soon I craved the exercise more than I craved the treats at the petrol station. I ran my first marathon in Queenstown in 2015 and have steadily built on my time scraping off 20 minutes in 6 months since then.

What is your favourite event/or training mission so far?

My favourite event.…hmmm they are all great! I love the atmosphere of a race and the nervous tension as everyone prepares to challenge themselves. For me, no matter what your challenge is it’s exciting to test yourself in the company and support of others. The Hawkes Bay Marathon in May was a real highlight.

Why?

With Richard’s help I had the best race preparation to date and was able to finish strong and enjoy the excitement of the day. I also got to share the day with my family who overcame their own challenges and finished their races.

What is your favourite training ride/run/kayak/swim etc?

My 6km loop around the river in Richmond is my favourite running track. The resident birdlife and I have struck up a rapport and we keep out of each other’s way. It’s quiet and peaceful around the river, yet so close to the heart of the city. The last part of Mt Pleasant road is great on the bike, the views are a just reward for slogging up the hill.

Who is your inspiration?

My Mum. She had a hip replacement recently and has never looked back since finding her feet again. Go Mum! Professional sports people in general – Cameron Brown, Craig Alexander, Kobe Bryant. Dedication and attention to detail is an inspiring trait – anything is possible if you work for it.

Do you have an inspirational quote that you would like to share?

“20 years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn’t do than by the ones you did do, so throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbour, catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore, dream, discover.”

“Pain is temporary. It may last for a minute, it may last for an hour, it may last for a year. But eventually, something else will take it’s place. If I quit, however, it will last forever”

Chocolate Milk. Smoothie with some form of chocolate, any chocolate.