Power paddler wins National Duathlon on debut and qualifies for World Champs

New Zealand Surf Ski Champion Rachel Mayhew has flexed her athletic versatility to win her age-group at the National Duathlon Championships in Auckland. 

It was only the CurraNZ ambassador's third-ever race on a bike and her first-ever Duathlon, but she put her lack of experience behind her to earn a place at next year's World Duathlon Champs in Australia.

Initially, she approached the race as a training event to build experience, but won her age group (30-34). 

Rachel says: "The race started with a 5km run on gravel, which was interesting as I’ve never raced a duathlon before so I needed to pace myself and gravel running is slightly harder!

"I had a great run then made my way into transition, had a gel before setting off on the 21km bike course along the water's edge. There were a lot of corners and 90-degree turns that tested my confidence but as the race went on I definitely felt better.

"Back into transition where I racked my bike and headed back onto the gravel for a 2.5km run to the finish. The legs felt like jelly and the heart rate was up there, but I kept thinking it’s a short run to finish! I caught a couple of people finishing which was a great feeling! 

"Nutrition and hydration were key, including two CurraNZ in the morning to give me the essentials, like reducing fatigue and improving endurance!'

Congrats to Rachel on a great win and showing her huge potential in a new sport.