Triathlon: Samuels announces retirement, pregnancy

Nicky Samuels runs during the Women's Triathlon at the Rio Olympics. Photo / Getty Images

Two-time Olympian and professional triathlete Nicky Samuels has today announced that she will be retiring from international triathlon to prepare for the arrival of her first child due in August of this year.

Samuels attended the London and Rio Olympic Games competing in the individual triathlon along with the Glasgow Commonwealth Games as an individual and in the team's race where the New Zealand team narrowly missed out on a medal.

Samuels' career has been highlighted over many years including world championship medals, world triathlon series medals, world cup medals, an off-road triathlon world championship title, an aquathlon world title, New Zealand elite cycling champion & triathlon national champion as well as many podium finishes for her pro team in France TCG-79 who she captained in the last few years.

She was ranked inside the top 5 triathletes in the world rankings in 2014 and has also won bucket list races like the 'Escape from Alcatraz' triathlon, the 'Alp du Hez' triathlon and of course the Xterra (off road) triathlon world championships in Maui, Hawaii.

Tri NZ are excited for Samuels and husband Steve, as they embark on a new chapter of their life.

HP Director, Hamish Carter has expressed his excitement for the couple.

"Nicky has made an incredible contribution to triathlon both as an elite and in the community. Her performances on the world stage have been exceptional for the sport and New Zealand," he said.

"On behalf of Tri NZ we wish the Samuels family all the best and look forward to celebrating the arrival of their new baby."

Samuels will remain in New Zealand this winter based out of her hometown Wanaka where she will launch her triathlon coaching business and spend time close to family and friends.