Jess Bray’s first half ironman at Challenge Wanaka was a masterclass in smart racing — calm swim, disciplined bike, and a strong, confident run. In this debrief we unpack the training, strategy, mindset, and lessons learned from a first-time athlete who raced with maturity beyond her experience.
View More What a First Half Ironman Can Teach You About Racing Smart
Race week at Challenge Wanaka has a habit of making athletes second-guess everything. Training feels too light, nerves creep in, and it’s tempting to do more when doing less is exactly what’s needed. In this final article of the series, I break down how to approach race week calmly, avoid last-minute mistakes, and arrive on the start line fresh, focused, and ready to execute.
View More Challenge Wanaka: Race‑Week Preparation
At Challenge Wanaka, nutrition and hydration mistakes rarely feel dramatic in the moment — but they almost always show up late in the race. In this article, I explain why fuelling and pacing are inseparable at Wanaka, how small early decisions quietly add up, and what actually helps athletes run well when fatigue starts to bite.
View More Challenge Wanaka: Nutrition & Hydration
The Challenge Wanaka run leg is where many athletes fade — not because of fitness, but because of pacing mistakes made early. In this run deep dive, I explain how to start conservatively, settle into rhythm, and build a strong finish off a deceptively demanding bike leg, plus a free Wanaka-specific pacing blueprint to guide your race-day execution.
View More Challenge Wanaka Run Leg Deep Dive
Challenge Wanaka’s bike leg is deceptively demanding, with rolling terrain and exposed sections that punish overly aggressive pacing. In this article, I break down how to ride smooth and controlled, avoid costly power spikes, and protect your run so you can finish strong — plus a free Wanaka-specific pacing blueprint to guide your race-day strategy.
View More Challenge Wanaka Bike Leg Deep Dive
Pacing is everything at Challenge Wanaka. A controlled swim, disciplined bike, and measured run can make the difference between a strong finish and a fade-out. In this article, I break down a complete swim–bike–run strategy for the Wanaka 70.3, including common pacing mistakes and how to avoid them — plus a free downloadable Challenge Wanaka Pacing Blueprint to guide your race day decisions.
View More Challenge Wanaka: A Complete Swim, Bike & Run Pacing Strategy
Challenge Wanaka is not a standard 70.3 triathlon. Cold morning conditions, a deceptively demanding bike course, and an honest, exposed run mean that small pacing mistakes quickly become big problems. In this article, I break down what makes the Wanaka course different, where athletes commonly go wrong, and how a smarter race plan can help you arrive at the run ready to perform — not just survive.
View More Challenge Wanaka: What Makes This Course Different (and Why That Matters for Your Race Plan)
Ready to take on Challenge Wanaka with confidence? 💪
Challenge Wanaka Domination is your complete training solution — with beginner, intermediate, and advanced pathways designed to match your fitness level and the time you have left before race day.
The Challenge Wanaka Half Ironman is a great event that is often voted the most scenic triathlon in the world. When you cross the finish line you will have achieved something special at this great event.
Programmes designed for either beginner or intermediate triathletes who are looking to complete at the Challenge Wanaka Half Ironman, these plans will help you achieve your goals.
The Challenge Wanaka Half Ironman is a great event that is often voted the most scenic triathlon in the world. When you cross the finish line you will have achieved something special at this great event.
Programmes designed for either beginner or intermediate triathletes who are looking to complete at the Challenge Wanaka Half Ironman, these plans will help you achieve your goals.