Triathlon New Zealand is partnering the Otago Polytechynic Institute of Sport and Adventure in the creation of the Otago Triathlon Academy.
The two year programme will become one of the high performance sports programmes on offer at the Polytechnic and will be headed by Tri NZ High Performance Coach Tim Brazier with full endorsement from Tri NZ.
The primary focus is to cater for emerging triathletes who are studying in year 13, at University or at Polytechnic, through the provision of a fully supported training environment.
The Otago Triathlon Academy will structure its programmes based on the University and Polytechnic year and aims to work with the athletes’ coaches in further developing the athlete and preparing them for international competition. The programme is limited to a maximum of 12 athletes a year, ensuring that the athletes develop in all aspects, from technical, tactical, nutritional, academic and of course training to produce the complete all round athlete without compromising their studies.
Tim Brazier is excited at the opportunity.
“There is a definite need to fill a gap currently in the high performance pathway by looking after our emerging triathletes in a tertiary environment. The Academy will allow them time to study while also providing a holistic approach to their sport, giving the athlete a great grounding at a crucial stage of their development.”
