Q + A: Cameron Brown

Cameron Brown. Photo / APN

Cameron Brown

* 10-time winner Ironman New Zealand

* 8-time winner Port of Tauranga Half

* 3-time podium Ironman World Championship

* Ironman Europe Champion

What advice do you offer to people considering taking on a Half Ironman distance race next year?
It depends on your background. But if you have not done triathlon or any of the disciplines of triathlon, then I would definitely recommend doing smaller triathlons first.

Look to your local club or events in your local area, but start with a sprint-distance triathlon, then a standard distance before you set your sights on a Half and then on to Ironman.

I see people taking on Ironman as their first triathlon but I don't think that's a smart way to go.

There is the old saying that Ironman is not a sport but a way of life, how much sacrifice is involved?

Those who take part in Half or Ironman events tend to develop this as a way of life because doing this sport regularly is a great way to keep active and healthy.

By natural consequence, it becomes a way of life and you mix with lots of friends who have this same lifestyle.

In terms of competing as a professional, it is no different to any other endurance sport.

I do 30-40 hours a week of pure training, plus probably 15 or 20 hours on top of that with massage, physio, dealing with sponsors, handling correspondence, organising travel and all this stuff.

I love what I do every day. Probably the sacrifice has really come from my family over the years - and I am very lucky to have a wife and family who support me so much.

How much training is required for an average to be able to complete a half-distance triathlon?

The great thing about the half triathlon is that you can achieve one with around 10-15 hours training a week. So it is the ideal event for someone with a busy career or lifestyle, because you can manage this amount of training around work and family without too many issues, particularly in the summer months.

How do you advise they break down their training?

It will change throughout the year. But in the off-season I suggest you concentrate on the disciplines you are not strong at. If you have been a runner then take the time to improve your technique with swimming, which is probably the most technical. Once you are preparing for the season then you need one long ride each week, ideal for the weekend, and a long run, say mid-week. Overall you probably need 2-3 swims each week, 2-3 runs, 2-3 rides.

What are some key tips to staying injury-free?

If you are new to the sport, especially, then the key one is running. Both swimming and riding are non-weight bearing which is why triathlon is such a good activity for everyone. So take care with your running. Try to keep as much of the running to off-road, trails, grass and the like, and avoid the hard surfaces.

Also, if you can, then get regular massage. If you get niggles on the bike ask your bike shop for a bike-fit because it's likely you are not set up correctly.

Likewise, any soreness from swimming could be a technical issue, so spend a few dollars and ask your local swim coach for a one-on-one lesson.

Can you remember what it was like completing your first Half?

The Port of Tauranga Half is probably my favourite race anywhere.

I can still remember it. The Mount is such a great place, and there's always so much support out on the roads and around that course from fans and holidaymakers.

And I remember my first win there, coming down the finishing chute.

And with Ironman, all the months of hard work and dedication are worth it to run down that finishing straight. It's such a powerful experience for everyone.