Warriner tells of winning ways

wo-time Olympian and International Triathlete Union champion Sam Warriner spoke to Nga Tawa triathlon and swimming squads at the Marton Pool. Warriner (second left) is here with Sophie Martin (Year 13), Giorgia Miller-Thevenard, (Year 13) and Georgina Wallace (Year 10). Photo/Supplied

Nga Tawa's triathlon and swimming training squads heard first hand from two-time Olympian and International Triathlete Union athlete Sam Warriner what it takes to be a champion.

Warriner, a Commonwealth medallist and multiple 70.3 and Ironman winner was invited to speak to the two squads during their regular training at the Marton Pool with Trevor Nichol from the Nichol Swim School.

Mr Nichol also trains Warriner, who told the students that consistent training was important and that they had to always give 100 per cent, even if they didn't feel up to it.

"Make the most of every opportunity that is presented to you," was her advice.

She stressed the importance of goal setting and that the students had to prioritise their goals, especially as they got older and would have more commitments and distractions in their lives.

Warriner said she was not a top-placed athlete at school but learned the values of the advice she shared with the students.

It was through hard work that she started to win and achieve her goals, Warriner said.

Nga Tawa acting head of PE Kim McAlley said the triathlon squad made the most of the resources available at the school and the surrounding area.

"The triathlon team is a dedicated group of students who train the three disciplines regularly before and after school," Ms McAlley said.