Ripples from Iron X
McKenzie reveals flak takes a personal toll
THE furore surrounding Iron X continues to take its toll on competitors in the wake of the event’s controversial debut last month.
Northcliffe athlete Danielle McKenzie competed in the exhibition event on Australia Day weekend following a barrage of criticism from some athletes who believe integrating surf sports with stand-up paddleboarding and beach battlegrounds was against the core ideals of their sport.
McKenzie, who finished sixth overall in Iron X, said her decision to compete amid the criticism had taken a personal toll.
“I didn’t really realise how much of an impact it had on me until I had a sit down with my coach Naomi Flood and let everything out, I think,” she said.
“For us, it was kind of hard because we had a few girls doing it and a few girls not so it split the group a bit.
“It’s everyone’s opinion and they have a right to say what they feel.”
From triathlon to water polo, rugby, Aussie rules and surf lifesaving, the 25-yearold has always enjoyed attempting new sports, which made it an easy decision to compete in Iron X.
“I’ve always been someone who loves trying new things,” she said.
“I’d be lying didn’t enjoy it.”
Upon completing the Nutri-Grain Ironwoman Series, the Northcliffe athlete has continued to battle with the re-emergence of tennis elbow in her right arm.
“I have some really good days and some bad days,” said McKenzie, who spent last weekend at home in New Zealand assisting at a Nippers clinic. “It’s nothing too much for me to worry about.”
This weekend, McKenzie will compete in the Shannon Eckstein Ironman Classic alongside Australia’s elite ironwomen for a chance at $20,000 prizemoney. if
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