Meet A Race Pacer - Hayden Small

NAME: Hayden Small

AGE:   11

How long have you been doing triathlon?

I was 6 when I did my very first triathlon for fun but have been competing and training since I was 9.

What do you love the most about triathlon as a sport?

It is a fun sport that keeps me fit and healthy

What is the best thing about being part of the Noosa Junior Tri Program and Race Pace Coaching Squad?

I love the opportunity that I have to represent my squads at different events and the people that I get to train and race with are awesome.

What are some of your greatest achievements so far?

·       Representing Noosa District at the Regional Cross Country in 2016

·       Winning my age group at the SC Marathon 5km 2016

·       Winning the Gold Coast Enticer Team Triathlon 2016 with my Dad

·       3rd in my age group at the Gold Coast Marathon Zespri 4km Dash 2016

·       Being awarded the Noosa Tri Junior Scholarship for 2016/17

What are some of your PB’s?

·       Swimming: 100m – 1:36,  200m – 3:20

·       Running: 1km – 3:39, 5km – 19:52, 10km – 60:34

What are your goals for the coming race season?

I am aiming to make the Sunshine Coast Regional Team for Aquathlon and Cross Country and a couple of podiums at QTS events.

Do you have any favourite triathletes and why?

I am a big fan of both Luke McKenzie and Beth Gerdes.  They are both dedicated and hard-working, generous with their time and they inspire me to be like them in the future.

What is one lesson you have learned from your coaches Peter and Jacque McKenzie?

Both Jacque and Pete have taught me that you have to work hard to achieve your goals and that you have to put in 110% each and every time you train.

Is there anybody you would like to thank for helping you work towards your goals in triathlon so far?

I really want to thank Jacque and Peter for all of their hard work and support they give me and the other juniors in our squad.  I also want to acknowledge Noosa Tri Club for their financial support with the scholarship and Keith from Trilogy Cycles for fitting me up with my new Avanti road bike for the season.