Ironman clash robs popular Monster of two past stars

Competitors leap off the Moturiki blowhole. Photo / Dscribe Media Services

Two of the success stories from last year's Mount Monster are "gutted" that they won't be lining up to tackle New Zealand's freshest surf lifesaving event.

But Mairangi Bay's Danielle McKenzie and Australian Jackson Maynard have decent excuses for missing the spectacle on December 20, having qualified for the lucrative Kellogg's Ironman series in Australia on the back of their Monster deeds.

McKenzie was impressive when she claimed the women's division in the inaugural 25km endurance race along Mount Maunganui's scenic coastline last year.

She outlasted her rivals over the 5km beach run, the spectacular swim leg which includes a jump off Moturiki Island's famous blowhole, the 12km ski leg and the 6km board paddle.

McKenzie used the win to kick-start an incredible 12 months, which saw her win national and world titles and qualify for the Kellogg's races, which begin today in Western Australia.

"The series will be a huge test for me this year and loads of new experience will come from training with and racing the top Australian girls," she said.

"But I am gutted that I won't be able to defend my title in the Mount Monster this year - unfortunately it clashes with the second round of the series on the Gold Coast."

Maynard was equally disappointed to be absent this time around.

The Aussie finished third last year behind New Zealand stars Cory Taylor - who pocketed $2500 for the win - and runner-up Max Beattie.

"The Mount Monster is unlike any other ironman race in the world," he said.

"The way it incorporates the beautiful landmarks around the Mount is amazing."

Beattie narrowly missed qualifying for the Kellogg's series as well, although he and defending champion Taylor are likely to be back for the Monster from their Queensland base after they, too, enjoyed a stellar year.

Taylor kicked on from his commanding Monster win by winning his first New Zealand Ironman title in Whakatane, before combining with McKenzie and Beattie to help New Zealand defend their World Championship title in France in September.

The concept of the race has been developed by Mount Maunganui Lifeguard Service club coach John Bryant.

Bryant was delighted to see it formalised into a proper race last year, especially with the signature blowhole jump included.

"The blowhole jump isn't just a test of nerves, it's a valuable training tool for our lifeguards."

Mount Monster
When: December 20
Where: Mt Maunganui
Event includes: Run (approx 5km), run/jump/swim (approx) 1.2km, ski (approx 12km), board (approx 6km) - compulsory briefing on the evening of Friday December 19.
Teams can be 2, 3 or 4 members - male, female or mixed with a mixed team having at least one male or female.
All competitors (Individual and Team) must hold Surf Lifeguard Award and be refreshed.

For entry details, contact the Mount Maunganui Life Guard Service or go to: www.raceentries.co.nz/seriesdetail.php?clientid=39&seriesid=68