The fuel behind IRONMAN New Zealand

The iconic endurance event ANZCO Foods IRONMAN® New Zealand always happens in March, bringing together more than 2,000 athletes from all walks of life to take on the challenge of swimming, biking, and running in and around beautiful Lake Taupō. We sat down with Peter Conley, CEO of ANZCO Foods, to talk about his background in the sport, and the natural connection between IRONMAN and New Zealand's finest beef and lamb.

Q: I understand you have a personal connection with IRONMAN. Tell us what got you into the sport and why IRONMAN New Zealand is such a special event?

I've always been drawn to a challenge and IRONMAN is the ultimate test of endurance. Back in the '80s, I began competing in short course triathlons before moving into marathon running. From there it was a natural next step to add swimming and cycling back into my routine and take on my first IRONMAN race. I've now completed five full-distance IRONMAN races in Taupō, along with a few half-distance events, and every time I'm reminded why this event is so special.

ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand is the longest running IRONMAN race outside of its original home in Hawaii. The course is beautiful but tough, and there is a great history of past New Zealand winners like Cam Brown, Erin Baker, Braden Currie, and Hannah Berry who have inspired the next generation of athletes.

Probably the most unique thing about ANZCO Foods IRONMAN New Zealand is the Taupō community itself. IRONMAN New Zealand wouldn't be what it is without the support of the locals. The way the town embraces the event is unmatched, with an army of local volunteers who support the build up to the event and are out on the course on race-day until the final person crosses the finish line. Their work is inspiring and exceptional. ANZCO Foods is honoured to be associated with them.

Q: And ANZCO Foods' involvement in the event has become more than just being a title sponsor?

Absolutely. We had 18 staff members taking on IRONMAN New Zealand this year. I was thrilled to see our people getting behind the event and stepping up to take on such a big challenge. Knowing how much hard work and commitment it takes to get to the start line it made me very proud being at the finish line cheering each of them on.

We also supported four of our farmer suppliers to compete in this year's event. Farmers are at the heart of everything we do at ANZCO Foods, and we'd love to see more of them getting involved in the future. The dedication they show in caring for their land and animals is perfectly aligned to the dedication required to complete an IRONMAN, and I'm very pleased that we can support them in their journey.

It has also been satisfying to work with professional athletes like Braden and Hannah, as well as Kyle Smith, Matt Kerr, and Fiona Gallagher. IRONMAN is a tough sport and an even tougher way of making a living, so helping them in our own small way to keep training and competing at the highest level is important to us as we look to the future of the sport in New Zealand.

Q. What do you hope ANZCO Foods and its race team take away from their involvement in IRONMAN New Zealand?

I hope our team have come away with a huge sense of achievement. The journey to get to the start line in Taupō requires a massive amount of sacrifice and resilience, and race day teaches you a lot about yourself and what your limits are.

Beyond the race itself, IRONMAN has created an incredible sense of community around the world, and that's something that is very important to us at ANZCO Foods too. It's been great to integrate the IRONMAN spirit into what we do every day, as we aim to bring you nutrition and good health from New Zealand's finest beef and lamb.

Q. What makes ANZCO Foods' beef and lamb ideal fuel for Kiwis, especially those competing in events like IRONMAN?

Beef and lamb can play a vital role in supporting a balanced diet and fuelling training and recovery through its combination of protein, zinc, iron and B12, allowing your body to function at its best. Whether you are an athlete or not, a balanced and healthy diet is crucial. We're so lucky in this country to have a top-quality supply of beef and lamb on our doorstep.