Cash boost for Ackermann

ROLE MODEL: Whangarei's Simone Ackermann hopes to inspire young Northlanders as she pursues the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.PHOTO/SCOTTIET.COM

With her eyes firmly set on representing New Zealand at the next Olympics and Commonwealth Games, Whangarei triathlete Simone Ackermann hopes her journey will inspire young Northlanders.

The 24-year-old has been retained as part of Triathlon New Zealand's high performance development squad for her efforts over the past year. Although this is just one step in the process.

There is no questioning Ackermann's commitment to the sport as she essentially trains herself into the ground at times.

"To me the best feeling is after a really hard day's training, lying on the couch and feeling like there is nothing left to give. With this being said, my biggest motivator is the Olympic and Commonwealth Games," the chirpy Northlander said.

Helping make things a little easier for Ackermann is the news she has just received an AMP Dynamics Regional Scholarship worth $5000.

The money received from the scholarship will be put towards new training equipment, insurance, luggage, flights, transport, equipment repairs/maintenance and race accommodation.

"I'm aiming to be ranked in the top 20 triathletes in the world and the third best New Zealand female.

"I would like to think that it allows me to be a role model and hopefully inspire other young Northlanders wanting to pursue their goals, and gives me a chance to show my appreciation to those around me," Ackermann said.

The talented triathlete was selected from 19 other applicants from lower Northland, receiving one of 12 regional scholarships across the country.

Each Regional Scholarship recipient is awarded $5000 to 'do their thing', and AMP will provide an additional top up of up to $5000 to one of the Regional Scholarship recipients at the AMP Scholarships National Awards evening on December 4.

Richard Gerard at AMP Dynamics said: "Simone is such an inspiration in her chosen sport. She's driven, passionate and focused on reaching the top.

"We're looking forward to watching her fly the flag for our region sometime soon on national television. We'll be cheering her on every step of the way.

"We're delighted the $5000 AMP Dynamics Regional Scholarship will be put to good use with a person whose values of passion, hard-work and determination aligns with that of our team."

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