Braden Currie's late decision to enter the 40th Coast to Coast multisport race has paid dividends, as the reigning Ironman NZ champion captured his fourth victory in the South Island classic.
Confirming his participation on the eve of this year's cycle-run-kayak trek from Kumara to Christchurch, Currie has headed defending champion Dougal Allan to the Sumner Beach finish, clocking 9h 45m 23s for the 243km journey.
With the postponement of next month's Ironman NZ at Taupo, Currie went in search of a race to fill the void and did not have to look far. Three consecutive Coast to Coast victories from 2013-15 had kickstarted his career and contesting the anniversary edition was too tempting to turn down.
"It was a huge decision to actually make the start today," he says. "I've always wanted to come back and race Coast to Coast.
"It was amazing to be back racing in the natural environment and the course is a favourite. To go back to where it all started and have an experience like this feels incredible - it means a lot to me."
After riding with the lead pack through the opening cycle leg, he took command of the race during the mountain run over Goat Pass and built a 20-minute lead over Allan before the kayak leg down the Waimakariri River, which he maintained to the finish.
"Obviously, I haven't been on the course at all or in my boat for years, and haven't done any real mountain trail running," says Currie.
"I feel really lucky to get out ahead of Dougal. He's an incredible human and one of my best mates.
"Once you're in that race mode, you just do what you've trained to do in that environment. I had a great day - a good run, bike and paddle."
High water levels had seen the paddle section reduced to just 30km, playing into Currie's lack of recent kayak training, as he pursued swim-bike-run honours over the past five years.
"I knew the river would be high so as long as I stayed in the fast water and kept my boat up the right way, I hoped I wouldn't lose too much time. Luckily, that happened."
In the women's race, defending champion Simone Maier had too much for four-time winner Elina Ussher over the closing stages, edging ahead to win by eight minutes in 11h 52m 18s.
