Elite coach returns to lead Challenge Wanaka training camp

Challenge Wanaka has announced dates for its second official training camp and also confirmed that 2011/12 Tri NZ Coach of the Year, Bevan McKinnon of fitter.co.nz will once again lead the camp as head coach.

The residential camp takes place in Wanaka from 28 November to 1 December, strategically timed seven weeks before race day on 18 January so athletes develop confidence and get maximum benefit from the coaching and nutrition advice provided.

Bevan McKinnon returns as head coach following his successful inaugural training camp last year. An elite-level triathlete, he has been on the podium at Challenge Wanaka and has competed in the World Championships at Olympic, long course and iron distances. Bevan is one of only three Tri NZ Level 3 Accredited Coaches in the country.

He said the long distance training camp was an invaluable opportunity for athletes to improve their technique, extend their training knowledge and familiarise themselves with the 2014 course.

“Training on the same course you’ll be racing on next January and getting professional advice to develop specific nutrition and pacing strategies means you’ll return home fitter, better prepared and ready to take on Challenge Wanaka! “ he said.

Accommodation and training-specific meals are included in the package that focuses on fully coached swim and run technique sessions, a training and race day nutrition seminar by fitter.co.nz head nutritionist, Mikki Williden plus the option of a group bike ride over the world famous Crown Range from Queenstown to Wanaka.

The official Challenge Wanaka training camp costs $595 including all coaching, food and accommodation.

Challenge Wanaka attracts in excess of 2,000 athletes over a week-long celebration of sport involving all ages and abilities. The flagship event, Challenge Wanaka long distance triathlon (3.8km/180km/42.2km) is part of the renowned Challenge Family global series of triathlons which features 22 races in 14 countries, including the world’s largest long distance triathlon, Challenge Roth in Germany.

For online entry and more information visit www.challengewanaka.com.