Tri NZ announces new national coach

Triathlon New Zealand has concluded an exhaustive selection process with the appointment today of Greg Fraine to the position of National Coach for the sport.

The former Commonwealth Games cycling medalist brings a wealth of competitor, coaching and management experience to the role with Tri NZ CEO Dave Beeche delighted that the sport has attracted a man of Fraine’s reputation and experience.

“We attracted interest in this role from right around the globe; such is New Zealand’s reputation as one of the world’s most successful triathlon nations.

“The fact the person to come through that process as the number one candidate was a New Zealander is a credit to Greg. What was clear throughout this process is the enormous respect and mana that Greg holds in the triathlon community from athletes and coaches.

“The Board is delighted that Greg has made the decision to join us and oversee our High Performance Programme through to the London Olympics.”

The appointment included detailed consultation with a selection of elite coaches and a panel of athletes who were invited to meet with the final two candidates to hear and share views on the future of the sport at the top level.

Beeche said it was vital no stone was left unturned if the sport was to find the right candidate.

“This is the most critical appointment Tri NZ will make with regards our high performance programme and success in London and beyond that 2016. We have consulted the coaches, athletes and key stakeholders throughout the process to enable us to make the best and most informed decision.

“The quality of the applicants was of a very high standard, but the response to Greg’s appointment is one of almost universal approval. He will be a highly valued addition to the Tri NZ team.”

46 year old Fraine is thrilled with the appointment and will commence work as soon as he can.

“When the opportunity came up to lead the elite level of the sport through to London my heart rate picked up a little and I am delighted and humbled to have won through a vigorous and detailed selection process.

“My involvement in the sport dates back to 1980 when I entered and won my first triathlon. I have since clocked up 29 years and countless hours working directly with elite athletes, the Tri NZ High Performance Programme and of course taking part myself at various world championships.

“I am under no illusions as to the enormity of the task I am charged with but with the great support team at Tri NZ and the quality of the athletes and coaches we have, I am convinced we can live up to expectations.”

It is that breadth of experience aligned with Fraine’s coaching qualifications and skills that convinced the selection panel they had their man, said Beeche.

“The role is a demanding one, one that requires a wide range of skills and experience to make work. Greg has experience as an elite athlete, coach and manager, including a management and coach role with the Tri NZ team in Beijing. He has all the skills and understanding to give us the best shot of success in London and at major events along the way.”

Under the newly implemented High Performance Programme, Fraine will lead the elite side of the sport with a specific focus on World Championships and Olympic Games.

Greg Fraine – Career highlights

Represented New Zealand 40+ occasions in Cycling, Triathlon & Duathlon
Achieved Olympic and Commonwealth Games selection, winning a Silver Medal at 1986 Commonwealth Games. Captain of 1988 Olympic road cycling team
Winner of 2 World Age group Triathlon titles
3 times winner of Cycle Industry Salesperson of the year
Raced and won 1st Triathlon January 1980
Co - Coached Karen Holliday to 1991 World Championships points race win and 4th in 1991 World Championship road race
Involved in Triathlon High Performance program since 1995
Coached five triathletes to carding level, Martin Van Barneveld, Gina Fergusson, Sam Mallard, Amanda West & Andrew Young.
Triathlon World Championship team captain 1992, 1993, 1994 & 1995
Support coach for 2003 & 2004 World triathlon Championships
Triathlon High Performance coach representative for the past 3 years
Recipient of coach Prime Minister Scholarships for 2006, 2007 & 2008
Support manager and coach for 2008 Beijing Olympics Triathlon team