Triathlon HB's 'game changer' steps aside

Brendon Lodge

After four years at the helm of Triathlon Hawke's Bay, Brendon Lodge is stepping down.

He leaves Ben Hur-sized shoes to fill, club president Anthony Ham says.

As development manager, Lodge has been a "game changer" for the club which has about 300 members.

Lodge had maintained the club's position as the strongest triathlon club in New Zealand by focusing on the mantra that "triathlon is for everyone", Ham said.

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

Lodge also oversaw the multi-sport club's rebranding to TriHB all while keeping the club coffers in good shape.

He was named administrator of the year at the 2014 Sport Hawke's Bay awards.

Lodge said he "thoroughly enjoyed" his time in the role but was stepping aside to let someone else take over with fresh energy and ideas.

"This is going to be the first time I have ever resigned from a job which I truly love."

The best part of the job had been seeing beginners tackle new challenges and achieving their goals. However, he was looking forward to spending more time with family.

Ham said Lodge was leaving the club in great shape.

"Brendon will be leaving some very big shoes to fill. I sincerely congratulate him on a job extremely well done. In fact, more than a job. It's a lifestyle, living and breathing Triathlon Hawke's Bay. I look forward to seeing Brendon on the start line of cub events as opposed to the face behind the microphone."

The club is looking for a replacement in a role that involves handling membership and public communications, working closely with volunteers and sponsors as well as administration.