Kia Ora Magazine - ANZCO Foods Articles

Professional Ironman Braden Currie talks about his new brand ambassador role with ANZCO Foods, the importance of quality beef and lamb in any nutrition plan, and his goals for 2023 and beyond.

What does your training schedule look like at the moment?

Right now, I’m training anywhere from 25-30 hours a week, including approx. 25km of swimming, 70km of running and 400-500km on the bike, with the odd gym session thrown in for good measure.

How much of a role does diet and nutrition play in your performance as an athlete?

Even on a lighter training day I need around 4,000-5,000 calories and on a heavier day 7,000 to fuel my body, and that can climb right up to 10,000 when particularly intense sessions are involved. Ensuring those calories come from quality, unprocessed whole foods is really important. I eat red meat (beef and lamb) at least three times a week, using it as my primary source of protein.

Do you use a nutritionist to stay on top of your diet?

I’m really lucky there, as my wife, Sally, is a qualified naturopath and nutritionist. She sets out all of my dietary plans, which primarily revolve around a paleo design approach to main meals, to optimise protein, nutrient and iron absorption. Carbohydrates are used strategically where required to also ensure I am able to achieve each days training prescription.

And why is iron so important for an athlete?

Iron is critical for your hemoglobin stores. Low iron can impact the oxygen carrying ability of your red blood cells, inhibiting your body’s ability to deliver oxygen to your muscles – something which is pretty important when you’re performing aerobically for eight-odd hours!

I have my iron levels checked quarterly to ensure they’re where I need them to be. If you let it drop, it can take 6-8 weeks to get it back up, which can ruin an entire training cycle. Sally monitors those results really closely, adjusting my diet accordingly.

She also factors in where we’re training. Earlier this year we had a training block at altitude in Utah. The altitude naturally causes your iron levels to decrease, so we upped our intake of beef and lamb significantly before heading off on that trip. Why did you agree to become a brand ambassador for ANZCO Foods?

It felt like a very natural fit. I grew up on a farm in Methven, in the middle of the South Island. It was a beef and lamb farm, so I’ve always had a strong connection with the industry.

And Sally and I are super-passionate about nutrition – not only from an athletic perspective, but also as parents to two young children.

We love getting outside and going off on adventures together, living the healthiest, most active lifestyle we can. To do that, you’ve got to have the right fuel – and quality beef and lamb helps deliver exactly that. What nutritional advice would you give readers?

think the key point is to try not to overcomplicate things. People get lost in all the dietary fads out there these days. But, if you can just eat food in its most natural form, you can’t really go wrong. Fill your trolley with food that hasn’t been processed or refined. Eat to nourish yourself, enjoy your food, and feel proud of making good choices.

Finally, what are your goals for the year to come?

Well, the big event on the calendar is obviously IRONMAN New Zealand in Taupō next March. There’s nothing like competing in front of your home crowd, and I’d love to repeat my performance of 2021 where I managed to cross the line in first place.

All things going to plan, a good finish in Taupō will allow me to qualify for the IRONMAN World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. Winning that is certainly the end goal – I finished third in the World Championship race in Utah earlier this year, and if I get things right on the day I think I’ve got every chance of taking out Kona.

“Fueling your body with quality whole foods is really important. Red meat plays a critical role in that.”

Braden Currie IRONMAN and ANZCO Foods Ambassador

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Professional IRONMAN competitor Hannah Berry talks about the physical demands of life as an elite athlete, the importance of nutrition, and her partnership with ANZCO Foods.

How did you get into IRONMAN in the first place?

Until my last year of Uni, I was always involved in team sports. Then I got injured, and during the rehab, I started to get more into biking and swimming. Before I knew it, was doing adventure races and tackling the Coast-to-Coast, which then led into triathlon. I turned professional in 2017 and initially started out with a number of half IRONMAN events, before taking on the full distance course at Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand 2021. I ended up winning that event, and it’s fair to say I was well and truly bitten by the IRONMAN bug.

What does your training schedule look like at the moment?

Every day is different. But, on average, I’m training for 6-7 hours a day, split between swimming, biking and running. When an event is getting closer taper off a bit to ensure I’m fresh for race day – down to around 20 hours a week, with a bit of intensity thrown in to keep the legs firing. What role does nutrition play in all of that?

My calorie expenditure is huge –upwards of 5,000 on the bigger days – and sometimes it feels like all I do is train or eat. But it’s critical to get those calories in, and it’s so important that they come from good food sources.

While having the energy to train is obviously critical, recovery is just as vital. That’s where protein comes in. Muscle and bone repair rely on protein, which is why I’m always looking for quality sources following training sessions and races.

Where does beef and lamb fit into your diet?

I’m a big red meat eater – always have been. I make sure I eat a good amount of quality beef and lamb every week to ensure I’m getting enough protein and other essential nutrients on board.

As a female endurance athlete, I also need to make sure I’m getting enough iron and B12. Females can become depleted in both of those really quickly, which makes red meat even more valuable.

What excited you about the brand ambassador position with ANZCO Foods?

As a professional athlete, I’m incredibly interested in performance and how we get the most out of our bodies. That relates not only to elite sport, but to every-day life in general. The opportunity to work with ANZCO Foods was exciting because it gives me the chance to share my passion for healthy living, spreading the message of good nutrition to fellow athletes and, well, everyone else too.

What advice would you give readers about nutrition?

Keep it simple and concentrate on good, whole food sources. Everyone should ensure they get quality protein in each and every day – we need it for muscle mass and bone density, particularly as we age. Do that, and you’ll be setting yourself up for a long, happy and active life.

Any favourite recipes to share?

Moroccan lamb wraps with red onion, seasoned with Moroccan spices, lemon juice and zest, and olive oil. Throw in some salad fillings and tzatziki in a wrap and you’re good to go. I love it because it’s so easy to whip up after training, and it ticks all of the nutritional boxes.

When it comes to beef, you can’t beat a good steak on the barbie. I like mine cooked medium-rare and will often cook some veges like asparagus or sweet corn on the grill beside it.

Lastly, what’s on the cards for the year ahead?

Lots. My main priority right now is getting ready for Taupō and Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand in March. I’d love to defend my title there and, if things go well, that could see me qualify for the World Champs at Kona, in Hawaii. I’m also aiming to spend our winter offshore, training and competing on the international stage.

“Beef and lamb is quite simply the best source of protein. And protein is one of the key ingredients for a long, healthy and active life.”

Hannah Berry IRONMAN a nd ANZCO Foods Ambassador

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Photo Credit: Jemma Wells

Rick Walker, General Manager Sales and Marketing at ANZCO Foods talks about his IRONMAN journey and the company’s partnership with Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand.

Tell us about ANZCO Foods’ relationship with Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand.

At ANZCO Foods, we’re more than just a beef and lamb company. We’re really a nutrition and good health company, and we wanted to share that message with New Zealanders. Nutri-Grain IRONMAN

New Zealand is an incredible event that brings together athletes from across a wide range of ages, backgrounds and abilities. Nutrition plays a major part in their IRONMAN journey, hence it felt like a great way to highlight beef and lamb as one of Mother Nature’s nutritional powerhouses, which we carefully craft into a range of products that are then shared with pride to all New Zealanders – whether they be Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand competitors or not.

And you’ll be on that start line yourself?

That’s the goal! Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand on March 4 would be my tenth full distance IRONMAN race. The thing enjoy most though, is the process to get to Taupō. Race day can throw up variables outside of your control, but the journey to reach the start line is 100% of your making. It requires a fair bit of sacrifice, discipline, and discomfort, which is what makes the final result so satisfying. For humble weekend warriors like me, it is also about the challenge of balancing training alongside your daily commitments to family and work. Nutrition is also a crucial element in that journey, ensuring you perform at your best.

So, what does your training schedule look like?

I try to stay pretty active all year round, and I have done Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand enough times to know what I need to do to achieve my personal goals, hence my training regime has definitely changed as I’ve got older and wiser. I tend to focus on no more than three months of formal preparation, with weekly training loads of 16-22 hours split across the three disciplines. I’m a morning person, so the key weekday sessions are done pre-work, and then the weekends are about getting in those essential long bike rides. always try to run straight off the bike too – even if it’s just for 30 minutes. It helps get used to having tired legs on the marathon.

What role does diet play in your preparation?

Unfortunately, am not getting any younger, hence high-quality protein is crucial for my recovery and being able to front up day after day. In my mind, you can’t beat beef and lamb as a source of natural protein. I am also a proud dad of two teenage daughters, so it is really important to me that they understand the value of a good diet. Once again you can’t beat beef and lamb when it comes to providing essential vitamins and minerals like iron, B12 and zinc for their good health and development. But let’s get real – I am a notorious sweet tooth and enjoy a glass of wine, and one of the benefits of training for Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand is that you get to enjoy those treats guilt free.

When it’s your turn to cook, what’s on the menu?

I’m a pretty simple fellow, so I don’t think you can beat the flavour, versatility and great value for money that ground beef and lamb provides. I like to mix the two together when we make our family famous meatballs and spaghetti recipe, and I have been known to cook up a pretty mean Chilli. love slowcooked brisket, but I’m not brave enough to cook that at home. Luckily, we have Tristan at Smokey T’s here in Christchurch who uses Ocean Beef brisket from ANZCO Foods at his restaurant – amazing!

Any tips for first-timers taking on Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand next month?

Keep moving. IRONMAN competitors tend to get hung up on hitting numbers and goals, but race day is full of surprises, hence your first priority is to not let the course beat you. By crossing the finish line you ultimately win the day, and as a first-timer that should be your number one focus.

Take the time to appreciate the volunteers. Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand couldn’t happen without the great support of the local community in Taupō. Race day is all about you, but it only takes five seconds to flash a smile and say thanks as you run or cycle by. Remember, they have given up their day to make your day the best it can be.

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“Training for Nutri-Grain IRONMAN

New Zealand, as with life, is about finding balance and being consistent. Beef and lamb from ANZCO Foods is an incredible source of natural nutrition and good health that can help everyone perform at their best.”

Rick Walker

IRONMAN a nd

General Manager, Sales & Marketing ANZCO Foods

Beef Lamb & IRONMAN ,

ANZCO Foods are on a mission to bring you nutrition and good health from New Zealand’s finest beef and lamb, and we are proud to be a Premier Partner of Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand. Sport Nutritionist and ultra-marathon runner Mikki Williden offers up some essential nutritional advice that is as relevant to everyday New Zealanders as it is to the elite athletes that line up at the Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand start line in Taupō every March.

Why is nutrition so important for athletes, whether they be professionals or weekend warriors?

To be a successful athlete you’ve got to be healthy — that’s fundamental. Races like Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand are such tough events to prepare for and compete in, so getting the fuel you need to train and recover, and having the metabolic efficiency to access enough calories when you need them, are critical to success. Like the oil in your car, nutrition is the thing which keeps your body running smoothly.

And what role does beef and lamb play in that?

To get fitter, athletes have to train. This breaks down muscle that needs to be repaired and rebuilt. Beef and lamb are fantastic sources of protein and amino acids as well as micro-nutrients like iron, zinc and B12. Iron helps carry oxygen around the body, while zinc is vital for the gut and immune system. We also need creatine to support muscle recovery, cholesterol to balance hormones, carnitine for fatty acid metabolism, and choline for brain function — all of which are found in beef and lamb.

So, how much beef and lamb do we need?

Athletes have traditionally focused on the importance of carbohydrates, but we are now starting to realise just how crucial protein is. In fact, global experts now suggest that the current recommended dietary intake of protein is only about half of what we really need to function at our best every day. Ideally, we should be trying to consume about 1.6 grams of protein per kilo of bodyweight, which means if you weigh 70kg, you need 112g of protein daily. One of the best ways to achieve these levels is by eating beef or lamb at least 3-4 times a week. For athletes training for an event like Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand, those targets should be bumped up even further.

Can beef and lamb help athletes post-event as well?

Your body is in serious trauma after a long-distance event such as Nutri-Grain IRONMAN New Zealand, thus the focus needs to be on recovery and healing. Increasing your protein intake to 2.4-2.6 grams per kilo of bodyweight for the week after a race and adding in foods rich in anti-oxidants, such as berries and dark green leafy vegetables, will aid significantly in that process.

How do you know if your diet is on point?

You’ll know – you’ll definitely feel the difference when you get your diet on track. For athletes it can be helpful to get some base-line blood markers done by your doctor that will check your levels of B12, zinc, folate and iron. If you find it difficult to recover from sessions, or have symptoms that might suggest insufficient levels of nutrients, then you can get them measured again. It’s also worth recording things like sleep quality, recovery and how you feel in general. Food tracking apps can be useful and keep a training log – remember, you cannot manage what you don’t measure!

And finally, any tips for Kiwi’s to help stay on track with their nutrition and maintain their good health?

It’s really not that complicated. Eat a balanced diet of whole foods and you’ll have a really solid foundation to build on. Preparation is important – if you can put aside time every week to pre-cook and prepare meals you’ll be so much more likely to succeed. Make sure you’re getting plenty of clean, lean protein such as beef and lamb. An easy recipe love at the moment is premium mince mixed with beef liver – which is an amazing source of iron –rolled into meatballs, coated in Moroccan seasoning and air-fried. Give it a go!

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“Experts

now believe we’re only getting half the daily in-take of protein we really need. Beef and lamb is an important source of protein.”

Mikki Williden

S port Nutritionist and ultra-marathon runner

Lilly, tell us about your background in basketball…

Basketball has been a major part of my life over recent years. I was selected for the New Zealand U14 girls team that won gold in Melbourne, and in 2019 was the first female in NZ Basketball history to make the Junior NBA Global Championship as captain of the Junior Asia Pacific team. I also played last year for the Tokomanawa Queens in the inaugural season of New Zealand’s women’s league. I owe a lot to my parents, who have always supported my dreams and are helping me achieve my goals.

You were the youngest player to play in the New Zealand’s Women’s National Basketball League. How did that feel?

It was certainly a huge honour! As a 15-year-old it was a great league to be part of…a privilege.

Do the Queens feel added pressure as the reigning champions?

I wouldn’t call it pressure – but it’s a big motivating factor. We’ve got a very competitive and capable group of women, and we really believe this is the start of our legacy as a team. We are certainly determined to repeat last year’s success and take our game to a new level in the process.

At 18 years old, the Tokomanawa Queens’ Lilly Taulelei is the youngest player to ever compete in New Zealand’s National Women’s Basketball League. She talks to us about her meteoric rise, her goals for the future, and the important role of beef and lamb in peak performance.

What does a typical week as a professional basketballer look like?

The Queens train on court four days a week. Outside of those sessions we have at least two gym sessions where we work on strength and cardio. Then of course there are the game days as well. When there is time off, you’ll normally find me getting some shots up – it’s pretty much non-stop basketball.

ANZCO Foods is the Pounamu sponsor of the Queens, helping the team achieve peak performance through nutrition and good health. How important is nutrition in achieving your goals?

Managing my nutrition has been a huge learning curve for me. When I was younger I didn’t understand the role of nutrition, but as an athlete now realise how important it is to perform at my best. A diet including beef and lamb, which is rich in iron and protein, is critical for recovery after a tough training session and for the fuel need to get me ready to perform on court. I’ve learnt that your performance on the court is reliant on doing the little things right off the court, including how you train and how you eat. When you eat well, you feel well. And when you feel well, you play well! Even if you’re not an athlete, I think it’s important for young women to get the protein and essential minerals and vitamins needed to be at their best. Beef and lamb from

ANZCO Foods can be one way of meeting those needs, which is why am so pleased ANZCO Foods are a partner this year.

What are your go-to meals to cook?

I keep things pretty simple – you can’t beat a nice steak with mashed potatoes and loads of vegetables. I also love a quick beef stir-fry, and can’t say no to lamb chops.

I do enjoy being in the kitchen, but I have to admit that there’s still nothing quite like Mum’s home cooked meals.

What does the future hold?

I’m heading to the US to begin a scholarship at the University of Massachusetts, where I’ll be studying business marketing and sociology as well as playing basketball.

It’s an incredible opportunity, so I really want to make sure I make the most of it. Looking ahead, want to represent the Tall Ferns and win more titles with the Queens. Ultimately I want to play basketball professionally for as long as I can – whether that be in Aotearoa, Europe, or the WNBA in America.

And finally, what advice would you give to young girls inspired by your story?

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes – it’s the best way to learn. Just dive in and give it a go. And make sure you’re having plenty of fun along the way!

“Even if you’re not an athlete, I think it’s important for young women to get the protein and essential minerals and vitamins needed to be at their best”

Lilly Taulelei

Foward for the Tokomanawa Queens

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Tokomanawa Queens basketball captain Stella Beck explains how her background in psychology and neuroscience influences her unique leadership style, opens up on her journey to find balance in life, and discusses the importance of great nutrition.

Stella, tell us about your background in basketball…

I started getting really serious about basketball when I was selected for my first New Zealand age group team in 2010. I made my debut for the Tall Ferns in 2013 at the age of 17, and have worn the black singlet nearly every year since then. I spent four years at Saint Mary’s College (near San Francisco), played professionally in Australia (for the Townsville Fire and the Melbourne Boomers), and came out of retirement last year to lead the Tokomanawa Queens to the title in the inaugural season of Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa.

As a captain, what’s your approach to leadership?

My leadership style is probably a lot more passive than many captains. I respect the space of my teammates above all else – I believe that when you create a safe, comfortable environment people’s confidence will grow. I want the people around me to have fun, and in return I only ask that they bring their best effort and energy every day.

How has your background in psychology and neuroscience influenced your approach to top-level sport, and to leadership?

The mental aspect of sport has always interested me and I believe that it has been as important in my success throughout my career as the physical and technical aspects of playing basketball. It’s always useful to remember that basketball is just

a game and that you need to have a broad range of interests in your life to fill your cup. Prioritising time off the court helps to take the pressure off when it comes time to perform on it.

What does a week look like for you as a professional athlete?

During the season have something on every day, including team training, game days and individual workouts. When it’s the off-season I love trail running and I also practise yoga to maintain that mental edge.

ANZCO Foods is the Pounamu sponsor of the Queens, helping the team achieve peak performance through nutrition and good health. How important is nutrition in achieving your goals?

When it comes to elite performance, nutrition is critical. With a busy week of training, recovery is a priority. get my protein primarily from lean grass-fed beef and lamb, which is also rich in iron and other essential nutrients. I firmly believe that a balanced diet, including beef and lamb alongside vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, plays a major role in maximising my physical and mental health as well as general wellbeing.

What are your go-to meals?

I love soups and broths, so I will always save the bones from my meat. I’ll boil them down with water, scrape off the leftover fat and meat, get the marrow and then add veggies or miso for a meal that’s high in gelatin, amino acids and protein, and

“When it comes to elite performance, nutrition is critical. For recovery I get my protein primarily from lean beef and lamb, which is also rich in iron and other essential nutrients.”

Stella

one which does wonders for gut health (microbiomes) and immune support. A delicious cut of ANZCO lamb is my absolute favourite if I’m cooking a roast, although a nice chop with the fat on and plenty of rosemary is hard to say no to!

What does life outside of basketball look like for you at the moment?

I used to juggle professional sport with a full-time job but now I’m focusing 100% on the Queens and the Tall Ferns. I try to find time to do yoga every day and would love to teach it in the future. also enjoy gardening, cooking, spending time with friends, getting out and about in nature, travel, and solving the odd cryptic crossword!

What are your immediate sporting goals?

I’m committed to winning back-to-back titles with the Queens this season, as well as helping the Tall Ferns qualify for the Olympics in Paris next year. Both will be big challenges, but have no doubt that they can be achieved.

And, finally, what advice would you give young people chasing their sporting dreams?

There are so many opportunities that come with sport beyond what you do during game time. Explore them all – build friendships, ask questions and stay open-minded. It’s amazing what doors can potentially open that you had no idea were available when you started your sporting journey. Finally, always remember that we play because we love it. Make sure you have fun.

Beck Captain for the Tokomanawa Queens

Introducing a new naming partner

Introducing a new era

ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand

Getting the most out of yourself, whether it’s in elite sport or in day-today life, requires the right fuel; great nutrition which ensures both your body and mind are primed for peak performance.

Braden Currie IRONMANcompetitorand ANZCO Foods Ambassador

ANZCO Foods is passionate about bringing nutrition and good health from New Zealand’s fi nest beef and lamb. It is at the heart of everything we do and that is why we are proud to introduce ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand, taking place in Taupō on March 2, 2024.

ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand is an iconic event in the global IRONMAN calendar. The second longest running IRONMAN race in the world, it’s celebrating its 40th year this summer. Legends of the sport such as Scott Molina, Erin Baker, Scott Tinley, Joanna Lawn, Cameron Brown and Meredith Kessler have all played their part in writing the IRONMAN New Zealand story, with Braden Currie and Hannah Berry now taking the event to a whole new level. However, the true sign of ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand’s legacy is the growing number of everyday kiwis that are taking up the challenge, with the goal of crossing the fi nish line and offi cially achieving the status of IRONMAN.

Nutrition plays a crucial role in getting over that fi nish line. The quality of protein, zinc, B12 and iron that only beef and lamb provides, can be an important part of that nutritional journey.

Two people who share a similar passion for great nutrition and good health are ANZCO Foods Brand Ambassadors and world class IRONMAN competitors Braden Currie and Hannah Berry.

For Braden, winner of IRONMAN New Zealand in 2017 and 2021, nutrition is an essential part of his everyday life. “As well as being a professional athlete, I’m also a busy husband and father”, he says.

“Having the right fuel onboard is so critical, not only when exercising, but also just to ensure you have the capacity to squeeze the most out of life!”

Braden’s focus on nutrition is one shared by his whole family. “We eat a lot of whole foods, including lean beef and lamb, which is our primary source of protein”, he says. “We’re really passionate about teaching our kids healthy habits around food – they eat what we eat and are constantly learning the value and importance of quality nutrition”.

Like Braden, Hannah Berry is a big fan of beef and lamb. “On big training days I can burn as much as 5,000 calories”, she says. “It’s absolutely critical that I not only replace those calories, but that those calories come from quality food sources”.

Being a female athlete also brings extra considerations when it comes to diet and nutrition. “If we don’t get the right fuel onboard, female endurance athletes can become depleted in key areas really quickly. Protein is essential for energy and

recovery, but iron, zinc and B12 are also very important – and can get all of that from lean beef and lamb.”

Given the role nutrition plays in their lives, both Braden and Hannah found the partnership with ANZCO Foods to be a natural fit. “I grew up on a farm in Canterbury”, says Braden. “The farming lifestyle is in my blood, so I have a real connection to ANZCO Foods and the farmers they work alongside.”

“I love having the opportunity to share my knowledge about good nutrition”, adds Hannah. “It’s a huge part of my life. Partnering with ANZCO Foods gives me the chance to share that with people all over the country”.

Both athletes are looking forward to competing in ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand in Taupō next March, and ANZCO Foods will be proud to be right there beside them!

Feeling inspired? The ANZCO Foods team would love to see you in Taupō and celebrate your success.

Learn more at anzcofoods.com/ironman

with New Zealand’s finest beef and lamb

Hannah Berry IRONMANcompetitorand ANZCO Foods Ambassador

“My focus is all about ensuring I’ve got enough fuel onboard to get me through each session. Eating loads of high-quality whole foods, like lean beef and lamb gives me the protein and essential nutrients I need.”

Travel, training, trials and tribulations with IRONMAN ® champion Braden Currie

IRONMAN champion Braden Currie talks about finding growth in adversity, the evolution of his training and nutrition plans, and the importance of having family by his side.

You’ve recently returned from five months training and competing overseas. What were the highlights?

It was certainly a great season! We visited 12 different countries all up, and there were some awesome learnings along the way. IRONMAN Cairns, back in June, was definitely one of the highlights. That was one of those days when everything just goes right – the training, race strategy and nutrition all fell into place. managed to cross the line first in a course record time of 7 hours, 50 minutes and set a personal best for the run split (2 hours, 37 minutes) in the process.

Things didn’t go entirely to plan at the World Championships though?

No, they certainly didn’t. The IRONMAN World Championships in Nice was my main focus for 2023. It was a challenging course, but one that really suited my style of racing. Unfortunately, received a five-minute penalty on the bike, which I was able to get overturned post-race, but that put an end to any hopes I had of taking out the title and made the rest of the day a battle.

What can you take away from that experience?

Once processed things, there were definitely some good lessons to take away for the future. One is to stay focused on personal performance rather than results. As soon as I knew wasn’t going to win in Nice due to the penalty, I lost the mental edge required to push myself to the limit needed to cross the finish line first. But in hindsight, even with the penalty, if I had stayed focused on my own numbers and goals could still have finished well inside the top 10.

You took the family on the road with you. How was that experience?

It was amazing! Being able to take the family with me is really important. I’m definitely not one of those athletes who

can spend months away from home by myself – race better when I’m happy and I am happy when have them around.

My children (aged 10 and 15) are both really capable young people, and they love getting out and about in nature, riding their bikes and exploring new places. We knew this might be one of the last chances we had to enjoy a long block overseas together, so we certainly made the most of it!

You’ve achieved some of your best performances of your career in 2023. What do you think is behind that improvement?

Some of it probably just comes down to experience. I am really comfortable with my plan now and I am very consistent with what I do in terms of training and nutrition. For the last 18 months I’ve been working with Ben Reszel, who has taken over all aspects of my training. He’s really focused on the numbers and we do a lot of testing and measuring of different metrics and data points during training. It’s a very analytical approach, and I’m really enjoying it.

What have you learned over the years when it comes to the role of nutrition in high-performance endurance sport?

Daily nutrition is such an important part of my ongoing success. Over the years I’ve tried all sorts of different diets and eating regimes, but my nutrition is really dialed in now. I think I definitely put too much emphasis on being lean in the past, which sometimes caused me to under-fuel, so my focus now is all about ensuring I’ve got enough fuel onboard to get me through each session. To do that, we’ve really simplified my nutrition plan. The focus is on eating loads of high-quality whole foods. It’s probably what you’d call a traditional Kiwi diet, with lots of lean beef and lamb, which gives me the protein and essential nutrients I need, combined with plenty of vegetables.

As a brand ambassador for ANZCO Foods, how has your partnership with them influenced your approach to nutrition?

ANZCO Foods is pretty much the ideal partner for a professional athlete. Beef and lamb have always been an important part of my nutritional plan, but the relationship is about more than just that. The team at ANZCO Foods is genuinely committed to the sport of triathlon and IRONMAN. They’re passionate about their mission to help every Kiwi learn how New Zealand’s finest beef and lamb can help them lead a healthy life. I’m proud to help them achieve that mission in whatever way I can.

What are your goals for the next twelve months?

2024 is shaping up to be another big year! My main goal is the World Championships, which is back in Kona, Hawaii, in October 2024. But I’m also really focused on reclaiming my title at ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand in Taupō at the start of March. Aside from those two key races, am aiming to compete in Texas, Cairns, and Frankfurt.

And, finally, what does the Kiwi summer look like for you and the Currie family? While it is my job, try not to take training too seriously, and as a family we love to spend time in the great outdoors, so no doubt there will be lots of camping involved. We’re also planning to load up the caravan and head to Kaikōura for three weeks for some quality time away as a family, and there will be plenty of ANZCO Foods lamb racks and beef steaks on the BBQ to fuel the fun!

Braden Currie

IRONMAN and ANZCO Foods Ambassador

Professional IRONMAN and ANZCO Foods Brand Ambassador Hannah Berry talks about battling back from injury, taking on the world’s best, and the role great nutrition has played in her pursuit of peak performance in 2024.

Hannah, congratulations on your recent success overseas! Tell us a little about your latest achievements.

Thanks! And yes, it’s been a big few months. It started in Mexico with IRONMAN Cozumel. It was super hot over there, but I felt good the entire way, and was over-the-moon to take my first ever win in an IRONMAN 70.3 event.

Then it was off to Hawaii and the world champs in Kona. Again, it was incredibly warm, and the field was absolutely stacked with world-class talent. This was only my fourth full-distance IRONMAN, but I managed to set a personal best time and break the nine hour barrier, finishing 11th overall (and first amongst the Australasian competitors).

After IRONMAN New Zealand in March this year you made the call to change coaches. What was behind that decision?

It was really just about freshening things up. I’d been with my previous coach for about five years. We had a great relationship, but I needed some new ideas and it felt like the right time in my IRONMAN career to make a change. Training with my new team is a lot different and I’m enjoying the new approach. I’m feeling ultra-motivated and stronger than ever.

You’ve had some injuries to deal with this year. How did you manage to recover so well, and what have you learned about the role of nutrition in that process?

I had an overload injury in my femur coming out of IRONMAN New Zealand

in March, and that forced me to completely stop training. During that time I revisited everything from training load and biomechanics to my blood work and, of course, my diet. It was actually a really good opportunity to refocus on the basics that contribute to optimal performance – and nutrition is certainly a key component of that.

One of most important things I’ve realised over the years is that you’ve got to really prioritise eating enough. On big training days you create a massive calorie deficit, and if you continuously under-fuel you’re going to end up sick or injured. It’s something you’ve got to remain aware of every day, making sure you’re taking on enough macronutrients for energy, micronutrients for ongoing wellbeing, and loading up on protein from whole foods, such as New Zealand’s great quality beef and lamb, for recovery.

Are there any favourite meals that you turn to, to ensure your nutrition is on point?

My training days are long and tiring, so I try to keep things as simple as possible. The BBQ is my best friend over the summer period when live on steaks and lamb racks accompanied by potatoes and a salad. After a big race I find it hard to resist a good old-fashioned burger with a lean beef patty!

ANZCO Foods is the new title partner for IRONMAN New Zealand. Tell us what that means for the event, and the sport in general.

Seriously, ANZCO Foods is the perfect fit for this event! They’re really passionate

about good nutrition and providing Kiwis with the knowledge they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Most importantly they genuinely love the sport and the whole ANZCO Foods team has committed to ‘putting the iron into IRONMAN’. Back in March a number of ANZCO Foods employees raced at Taupō, many of them first time IRONMAN competitors, and that really added to the atmosphere on the day. I’m looking forward to them being even more involved in 2024 – and they’re the perfect people to be in charge of the post-race BBQ!

Lastly, what are your goals for the summer race season?

I’ve got some awesome local events lined up in New Zealand, which will culminate with heading back to Taupō for ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand on March 2nd. I won there in 2021 but had to be satisfied with second in 2023 – so on the back of my great result in Kona I’ll definitely be striving to cross the line first in March and reclaim the title!

Learn more at anzcofoods.com/ironman

“The BBQ is my best friend over the summer period. I live on steaks and lamb racks accompanied by potatoes and a salad.”

Hannah

Berry IRONMAN and ANZCO Foods Ambassador

Endurance, resilience and life-balance

Marlborough-based sheep and beef farmer and ANZCO Foods supplier Kieran Hickman talks about balancing life with his new passion for IRONMAN ® , the mental and physical challenges of adventure racing, and the value of great nutrition.

Kieran, tell us how you came to represent ANZCO Foods at IRONMAN New Zealand.

It all started back in 2022 when I was in the middle of the spring lamb draft. My stock agent, who knew I’d done a bit of adventure racing, mentioned a competition that ANZCO Foods was holding to find amateur athletes keen to give IRONMAN New Zealand a crack. I entered and was lucky enough to be selected.

What were the biggest challenges you faced preparing for that first race?

The main issue was the swim, which is why I ended up choosing to do the shorter 70.3 event (with a 1.9km swim, compared to the full IRONMAN distance, of nearly 4km).

While I knew how to swim, I’d certainly never done anything competitive in the past, so I needed to put in a bit of work there. Time in the water was the key – I just needed to get used to swimming for longer distances. Every time I took my daughter to her swimming lesson I’d jump in the pool and do some lengths. It ended up turning into one of the real positives from the whole experience. I’m certainly never going to be an elite swimmer, but I’m now much more comfortable in the water.

And how was the race-day experience for you?

It was very challenging but also really rewarding. I loved racing under the ANZCO Foods banner. They had several ANZCO Foods staff members competing, and we got to rub shoulders with elite athletes such as ANZCO Foods brand ambassadors Braden Currie and Hannah Berry. I finished in about six hours, which I was happy with. I’ve certainly been bitten by the IRONMAN bug now – the next goal is to complete the full distance at the first ANZCO Foods sponsored IRONMAN New Zealand next month!

We understand you have a bit of a history when it comes to endurance racing. Tell us about your sporting background?

I was a typical Kiwi kid growing up – always really active and loved being outside. I played cricket and rugby and was very competitive (probably something to do with having four brothers and two sisters)!.

I played semi-professional rugby in Ireland for a couple of years, and then got into running once returned home. That evolved into adventure racing and have taken part in a number of the GODZone races over recent years (where teams of four have to navigate their way across hundreds of kilometres of New Zealand wilderness) as well as the Coast-to-Coast.

What are the key differences between adventure racing and IRONMAN?

The adventure races last for days and there are lots of highs and lows. Everything from the weather to sleep deprivation plays a part, and you also are in a team environment, which adds pressure on yourself to perform. Mentally, you do a lot of growing during those events – you certainly build resilience, and it has helped me deal with some of the things that crop up during daily life, especially being a farmer with all of the challenges that can present. ANZCO Foods IRONMAN

New Zealand, on the other hand, is a very individual race and the intensity is much higher – you’re trying to stay just under your lactic threshold the whole time.

How do you juggle all of the necessary training with fatherhood and life on the farm?

Well, there are certainly some early morning and late night training sessions to keep on top of things! have a pretty busy life – I’m on the local school board, I’m a member of the rural fire brigade, the coach of several kids’ sports teams, as well as running the farm. But family always comes first. After that, it’s really just about prioritising and planning. When I’ve got a big event on the horizon like ANZCO Foods IRONMAN

New Zealand I try to do everything can to get ahead on the farm before the training volume starts to ramp up. That hopefully saves me some time down the track and gives me a few more opportunities to get those training sessions in.

And what role does nutrition play in all of that?

It’s super important! completed a Diploma in Exercise, Sport and Nutrition at Canterbury University, so I’ve always been aware of the role nutrition plays in achieving your best performance. As a member of the ANZCO Foods crew I was lucky enough to get some time with Mikki Willenden, a registered nutritionist and leader in the health and wellness space. She gave me some great tips, notably to increase the amount of protein was taking onboard during my lead up to March.

As a family, we always eat together, and always try to eat as ‘clean’ as possible. We limit the processed stuff and focus on whole foods. ANZCO Foods lamb racks with mint sauce are a family favourite. Having said that, I do find it hard to pass up a good ribeye steak, cooked rare on the bbq and accompanied by garlic sauce!

Finally, what’s it been like being a livestock supplier to ANZCO Foods? We supply both cattle and lamb to ANZCO Foods, and it’s a partnership we feel very privileged to have. They have been incredibly supportive and foster a real sense of family amongst their suppliers. Their support of IRONMAN New Zealand is amazing too – they pour so much effort and time into the event and they are truly passionate about spreading the nutrition and good health message to all New Zealanders.

Committed to

March represents the end of another New Zealand summer. It’s also the time of year when New Zealand’s leading endurance athletes, along with some 2,000 weekend warriors from around the world, come together in Lake Taupō to take on the challenge of completing the iconic and beautiful IRONMAN® New Zealand course.

‘ Iconic’ is a big word, but with IRONMAN New Zealand celebrating its 40th year in 2024 - as the longest running IRONMAN event outside of Hawaii - ‘iconic’ is a word that sits comfortably with this race. It boasts a 3.8km swim, 180km cycle, and 42.2km run, and it's the mix of location, community spirit and camaraderie that makes IRONMAN New Zealand so special.

This year’s event is also the first time that ANZCO Foods has taken on the Title Partner role, and the company is extremely proud to have created this partnership that they hope will continue for many years to come.

To help share their story, ANZCO Foods has worked closely with two of the world’s best professional long distance triathletes, Hannah Berry and Braden Currie, who are strong believers in the benefits of good nutrition and the important role top quality beef and lamb can play in their ongoing success.

“When I am in my peak training period my calorie expenditure can be huge,”says Hannah. “It’s really important that the calories consume are coming from quality whole foods. Beef and lamb gives me the protein and amino acids that my body needs to recover, repair muscles and strengthen bones. It also ensures I’m getting plenty of micronutrients such as zinc, iron and B12, which can be depleted really quickly when you’re pushing yourself to the limit day-inday-out.”

This summer, ANZCO Foods has also aligned with three of the sport’s up and coming stars – Kyle Smith, Matt Kerr, and Fiona Gallagher – who also use New Zealand beef and lamb as a key part of their nutritional plan.

“The partnership with IRONMAN New Zealand ties in perfectly with what we do at ANZCO Foods, which is bringing you nutrition and good health from New Zealand’s finest beef and lamb.”

ANZCO Foods’ link to IRONMAN New Zealand starts at the top. CEO Peter Conley has had a long history in the sport including completing the Taupō course twice. General Manager Sales & Marketing, Rick Walker, is also an avid IRONMAN competitor, with 2024 representing his twelfth IRONMAN race, eight of which have been in Taupō. Over the past year the wider ANZCO Foods community has also caught the IRONMAN bug, with a number of employees competing in the IRONMAN 70.3 race for the first time. The ANZCO Foods race team also involves three external competition winners, including Kieran Hickman, a sheep and beef farmer from Marlborough, who was highlighted in last months edition of Kia Ora.

For Rick, the opportunity to partner with IRONMAN New Zealand was too good to pass up. “Nutrition and good health are a crucial part of success in such a gruelling event,” he says.

“The partnership with IRONMAN New Zealand ties in perfectly with what we do at ANZCO Foods, which is bringing you nutrition and good health from New Zealand’s finest beef and lamb.”

“On big training days I tend to keep my food simple, with a focus on top quality beef or lamb accompanied by potatoes and plenty of salad,” Fiona says. "Iron is one of the most common deficiencies in people’s diets, particularly for women. count myself very lucky to have the backing of a company like ANZCO Foods that is passionate about crafting some of the world’s best beef and lamb and helps me keep my iron levels up when am expending so much energy preparing for ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand.”

Of course, beef and lamb is not just for those Kiwis crazy enough to take on the IRONMAN challenge.

“Beef and lamb have always been a cornerstone of the traditional

New Zealand diet," says Rick. "The world is changing at an everincreasing pace and nutrition fads and diets come and go. We know that the natural goodness of beef and lamb created by New Zealand’s world leading farmers will always play an important part in the lives of families and communities across the country.

“We've had great feedback from New Zealanders over the past year about our message of the nutritional benefits that come from enjoying New Zealand’s finest beef and lamb,” Rick adds. “With our first ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand under our belts, the ANZCO Foods team is looking forward to strengthening its partnership with IRONMAN New Zealand even further in 2025 and continuing to celebrate what our company, industry, and product offers all New Zealanders, as well as our customers, chefs, and consumers around the world.”

From left Hayley Behrns, Cherie Richardson, Peter Conley, Becky Turnbull, Kyle Smith, Hannah Berry, Braden Currie, Matt Kerr, Emma Waite, Fiona Gallagher, Rick Walker, Lucy Gunn.

Happy, healthy & for hungry more

Champion Kiwi kayaker Dame Lisa Carrington talks about her relentless quest to realise her full potential, the value of great nutrition, and her recent culinary collaboration with Angel Bay, ANZCO Foods' premium burger patty brand.

Lisa, you’ve achieved pretty much everything you have set out to do in your sporting career. What keeps you coming back for more?

I have a lot of motivating forces, but a big one is curiosity. want to know what I’m capable of. I want to continually test myself. It’s about realising my potential.

How has your interest in psychology influenced your performance on the water?

I have always been intrigued by psychology, which is why I decided to study it. I also work with a psychologist who, along with my coach, has helped me develop a mindset that allows me to meet pressure with courage. It also helps me get the most out of every day – working hard but having fun is important if I’m going to be the best version of myself!

What role does nutrition – and in particular New Zealand’s finest beef and lamb – play in your success?

Good nutrition underpins performance and general good health - don't want to do all that training and be undone by a suboptimal diet. Beef and lamb are a critical part of my nutrition plan. The protein and amino acids from beef and lamb play an important role in making sure my body can recover and get stronger, while iron is so important for female athletes and plays a crucial role in red blood cell formation that is vital for getting oxygen to muscles during exercise.

I make sure I’m eating quality beef or lamb at least three times a week.

What’s your favourite beef and lamb recipe?

I have plenty of go-to menu ideas, and the choice will often depend on what my training plan is for the next day. A Korean beef bulgogi bowl always hits the spot, as it includes a great mix of vegetables and rice. My husband and I love barbequing too.

"Beef and lamb are a critical part of my nutrition plan. The protein and amino acids from beef and lamb play an important role in making sure my body can recover and get stronger"

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Was it that passion for the barbeque that encouraged you to collaborate with Angel Bay to create the new, limited time only, Smoky Barbeque Beef Patty?

It certainly played a part! I love cooking and consider myself a foodie at heart. Burgers are so versatile and tasty. The chance to put my own spin on a great quality New Zealand made product like Angel Bay was just too good an opportunity to pass up.

How involved in the process were you?

I was involved from start to finish.

From sharing an overview of my favourite flavour combinations and profiles, to taste testing multiple versions of the patty as it was adjusted based on my direct feedback. It was a fun (and delicious) journey. I love bold flavours and I love how the smokiness really shines through.

From training and competing to culinary collaborations, you’ve got a lot on your plate. How do you find balance?

It’s definitely a juggle but I’ve got an amazing support team that

helps me get the most out of my busy life. I’m lucky to live close to some amazing bush tracks and the beach – that’s my happy place, and I try to enjoy some time there every day, if my schedule permits.

Lastly, what advice would you give young athletes looking to emulate your success on the world stage?

If you’re a young person involved in sport, it’s so important to enjoy whatever it is you’re doing. Ultimately, if the enjoyment factor isn’t there it’s going to be hard to stick with it. Sport has the potential to teach us so much, not just about the game you love, but about ourselves and those that we play with and against. It isn’t only about being competitive and winning –allowing yourself to have fun and make friends is just as important at whatever stage in your athletic journey you may be at.