By Luke Voogt
Torquay father-of-two Nathan Taylor competes in his third Ironman World Championship in Hawaii next Saturday, taking on a gruelling 225km triathlon in brutal conditions.
“I am hoping to use my previous experience to have my best race to date – three times’s a charm,” he told the Indy from Kona, Hawaii.
Taylor arrived in Hawaii this week, after qualifying in May by winning the 45 to 49 age group in the Ironman Australia at Port Macquarie.
He completed the Port Macquarie course in nine hours and 18 minutes, but admitted getting under ten hours in 30 degree heat and 80 per cent humidity would be difficult.
“I would love to go sub-10 hours in Hawaii for the first time,” he said.
“The world championship is renowned for very brutal winds and scorching temperatures. It is very hot and humid.”
But Taylor has his family in his corner willing him on in his quest for a Hawaii personal best.
“My family is amazing – they’re very proud,” he said.
“It can be tough trying to juggle family life, work life and Ironman life. But my wife Rima is so proud of what I have achieved.
“She is very supportive in my training and racing, and a big believer in following your dreams.
“I couldn’t do what I do if I didn’t have all the support I get.”
And it seems like Geelong is getting behind him too.
“Since leaving on Sunday, I have had constant messages wishing me all the best,” he said.
“I get a little bit embarrassed with all the attention, but it means a lot to me, and I am so surprised how many people are inspired and follow my journey.”
Though Taylor’s two children are young, they are already showing signs of their dad’s competitive spirit.
“Both my kids tell me they want to do an Ironman when they grow up,” he said.
“I think it’s great. But I wouldn’t be upset if they don’t. I just wish they grow up being fit and healthy.
“I tell everyone I think I am a great role model to my kids. I know they are so proud of me. They just think what I do is the norm.
“My 8-year-old daughter Zara does 11 hours a week training in competitive gymnastics – I think she already knows you’ve got put in to get the rewards.”
Taylor thanked everyone else with him on the journey, ahead of the big race next Saturday (13 October).
“My business partners are extremely supportive,” he said.
“The club I train with, Beckworth Racing, had 20 athletes come out on my last big training run to wish me all the best.”
