Triathlon: Ex-firefighter new TriHB GM

New TriHB general manager Mike Bond. PHOTO/FILE

A former firefighter and avid triathlete is the new general manger of TriHB. Mike Bond takes over the reins of one of the country's strongest clubs next month after Brendon Lodge stepped down following a four-year stint.

Club president Anthony Ham said Bond was chosen from an impressive calibre of applicants.

"Mike's previous experience in events, community-based partnerships and emergency management will be key in running the club and being able to take the club from strength to strength," Ham said.

Bond, who was a firefighter in Scotland, had a job exchange with the Hastings fire station six years ago. He and wife Vikki fell in love with the area so decided to move back here three years ago.

The outgoing Sports Hawke's Bay community development officer will start in his new position full time on June 29.

Bond's first triathlon was in 1986 and he has been involved with the sport and clubs globally since.

He has raced at a regional, national and international level and given up many hours volunteering at events as well as serving on the club committee last year.

TriHB owns and runs 24 club events, including the Shed 2 Triathlon series, the Friendly Dental Ironkids series and winter Duathlon Series.

Bond hopes to keep building a strong membership base and add to existing events.