Training, sacrifice ‘validated’

Podium of champions: Gisborne firefighter Kodi Campbell took third place in the ‘elite’ dvision of the national individual Crossfit championships in Cambridge. Pictures supplied

Gisborne firefighter Kodi Campbell finished third in the New Zealand national individual Crossfit championships in Cambridge at the weekend.

Campbell, 24, competed in the female “elite” division.

The competition was in two stages.

In the first, athletes took part in an online qualifier against female athletes from all over the country.

The second stage was an invitation event in Cambridge for the top 40 athletes from Stage 1 to battle it out for the title of fittest female individual at the nationals.

Her colleagues at Fire and Emergency NZ posted congratulations on their Facebook page.

“That was an amazing individual result,” their post said.

“Kodi's training and sacrifice has been validated.

“It was awesome mahi by her, considering it's the first time she has competed at this competition.”

Campbell is also a well-performed waka ama paddler and hockey player.

She has held world titles in waka ama, and was in the championship-winning YMP women's hockey team this year.

“I've been doing Crossfit for about four years, but I picked up my training regime this year for competition and self-improvement,” Campbell said.

“I love being part of the Crossfit community and seeing the improvements in others and in myself.

“It was an honour to be among all those top competitors last weekend.

“I was stoked and proud to make the podium. It was totally unexpected, but I had to work hard to get there.

“I'd like to acknowledge the gyms I trained out of — Metcon Mauri, Crossfit Papamoa and Anytime Fitness.

“Also, there are many people to thank for helping me get there.

“It was a team effort, and I have an amazing group of friends and family who support me on this journey.”