Age not slowing down Ann
Ann Bondy is nearly eligible for a free bus pass, but she much prefers life on two wheels.
The Titahi Bay triathlete has lately turned her attention to duathlon and won the 60-65 age group at the powerman duathlon world championships in Zofingen, Switzerland, on September 7.
Gold was assured because Bondy was the only female in her age category, but she still had to work hard to beat cut-off times on each leg.
The 64- year- old finished the 10km run/150km cycle/30km run in 11hr 10min.
‘‘It was tough,’’ she said. ‘‘ The weather was hot and it was somewhere that was a real unknown for me. After the bike leg I was feeling really ill, but I told myself it was all mental and just pushed harder.
‘‘I walked some of the second run and that disappointed me.’’
A small team of six New Zealanders went to Switzerland and brought home four medals.
Bondy said it was a huge achievement for the team and they received plenty of plaudits.
‘‘People were surprised to see us all the way from little old New Zealand. I wasn’t there under my own steam – it was a collective effort and we all supported each other.’’
Because swimming is not her strongest suit, Bondy is enjoying the duathlon challenge.
‘‘Duathlon is seen by many as the younger sibling of triathlon, but it’s becoming more and more popular. I’m loving it.’’
Bondy knows the hills around Wellington well, to run and to ride.
The Akatarawas, Paekakariki Hill Rd, Makara, Mt Victoria – Bondy rides them all, come wind, rain or sun. She is showing no sign of slowing down, with waka ama and paddleboarding also taking up much of her time these days.
Bondy’s next big focuses will be the New York marathon in a few weeks and the Kona ironman next August, likely the last time she will enter the famous race in Hawaii.
When not running and cycling, Bondy is writing a book of stories on those who have competed in the IronMaori competitions.