Bozzone gives a master class

SUPREMO: Five-time world ironman champion Terenzo Bozzone.

Top ironman at SBR Kids programme

SEVEN DAYS ago, five-time world ironman champion Terenzo Bozzone was battling the best of the best at the New Zealand Ironman in Taupo.

However, it was hoards of Maunu Primary School pupils he had to keep at bay on Thursday as he ventured to Whangarei to help spur on Northland's next generation of triathletes.

Finishing sixth at Ironman NZ after being hindered by a rib injury - a result of hitting a pukeko while training on his bike the week before - Bozzone was certainly elevated to No1 when the shrouds of wannabe triathletes sung a chorus of "Terenzo, Terenzo" as he arrived at the Maunu school field for the SBR Kids' triathlon in schools programme.

"It's awesome to see this grassroots-type stuff, getting the kids involved at an early age," he said.

"This is just great what SBR Kids are doing here at the schools. It's good for the kids to be learning about an active lifestyle and a healthy lifestyle - especially on a beautiful day here in Whangarei."

Joining the SBR Kids' triathlon in schools programme for the day, Bozzone's presence certainly inspired the students and he had more to offer than just expressing his support.

"I guess I can give them a few words of encouragement but the competitive ones, I can give them the knowledge of what I've learnt, and also I guess just give them a few pointers on what they can do differently ... It's awesome to see so many kids out and enjoying it," he added.

"I started triathlon when I was about 14, because I grew up swimming competitively, and honestly if this was on the table from the beginning I probably would have got involved in triathlon at a younger age."

Also joining in on a session with the Northland Secondary School development triathletes, Bozzone showed no hesitation in helping develop the region's next Sam Warriner, Simone Ackermann, or Nicky Samuels.

"Knowing about what kind of training to be doing, what kind of racing to be doing, I think I can give them a little bit of input into getting out there and doing training.

"One of the biggest things I've always tried to incorporate into my training is making sure it's fun," he added.

"When I get out there I always have fun. I'm 32 now and have been doing the sport for 18-odd years, and every time I get out the door and go training it's enjoyable.

"That's kind of key to anything in life - if you want to succeed, have fun."