Triathlon: Journey into the unknown for Vesty

Brendon Vesty, from professional cyclist to IRONMAN 70.3 competitor. Photo / Supplied

Former professional cyclist Brendon Vesty is set for a journey into the unknown as he adds swimming and running to his repertoire to tackle the Kellogg's IRONMAN 70.3 Taupo on Saturday.

The former New Zealand representative, who competed in the road race at the 1998 Commonwealth Games, enjoyed six victories overseas as a professional and numerous titles in New Zealand during a 10-year professional cycling career.

However while on holiday in Thailand earlier this year close to a triathlon facility he was tempted to try swimming and running and quickly discovered a new passion.

"I thought I could give triathlon a go," says Vesty, who is based in Havelock North in Hawkes Bay. "I was getting bored of cycling and I quite liked the idea of trying a couple of new disciplines. It made training more motivating and fun."

The father-of-four has found it challenging to cram in training with his career as director of finance for a vehicle dealership, no longer having the luxury of time to devote to his new sporting passion.

And the 44-year-old admits that adapting to two new disciplines has proved challenging.

"I have the fitness but swimming has been hard because it is technique-based and I've had to work on my core to make me more streamlined. I have struggled with shin splints with the running which has therefore been quite limited. I really feel I need to strengthen my muscles for running."

With this in mind Vesty's ambitions for the Kellogg's IRONMAN 70.3 Taupo are realistic.

"As an ex-pro I know I have the determination and perseverance to push through those barriers," said Vesty who finished second in his age group at the National Club Road Cycling Championships in Alexandra earlier this year.

Long term he has his hopes set on the 2018 Kelloggs IRONMAN New Zealand.

"I've really enjoyed doing something different," he says. "The crossover of doing three different sports has kept me fit and I've been lucky to be introduced to a really nice new community of people in the triathlon world."

There are over 1200 competitors from 30 nations competing.