When Angie Keen announced her intention to start racing triathlons, she was met with scepticism and doubt. But Keen, a 35-year-old policewoman from Rotorua, New Zealand, didn’t listen to the naysayers. Instead, she channelled their doubts into fuel for her passion and perseverance. Last month, her determination paid off in a big way—Keen stood atop the podium for her age group at the World Triathlon Cross Championships in Ibiza, Spain.

From Non-Sporty Child to Elite Athlete

Growing up in Wellington’s Ohariu Valley, Keen was not the quintessential sporty child. She spent her time horse riding and tap dancing, not realizing that years later, she would become an elite triathlete. Her athletic transformation began at the age of 23, inspired by a colleague who introduced her to the world of triathlons. It was a lifestyle change that would redefine her life.

Keen’s swimming skills, honed during family trips to the south coast and as a teenage lifeguard, formed the foundation of her triathlon career. Her first race was a humorous affair, mainly competing against kids, but it ignited a spark that led her to commit seriously to the sport.

Overcoming Doubts and Injuries

Despite the initial scepticism from others, Keen spent two years working diligently in triathlon, eventually earning the chance to represent New Zealand. “It’s more of a personal challenge than anything, just seeing what I can do,” Keen says. Her efforts paid off as she learned that tenacity and grit could take her to heights she never imagined.

However, the path wasn’t always smooth. Keen faced numerous running injuries, which made training for events like the Half Ironman incredibly frustrating. Nonetheless, even while managing these injuries, she secured podium finishes, including a second-place finish in her age group at the 2017 Long Distance World Championships and the Aquathlon World Championships the same year.

Following a seventh-place finish at the 2018 Long Distance World Championships, Keen made the difficult decision to take a year off from all forms of running to allow her body to heal. “I wasn’t even allowed to run across the road if a car was coming,” she recalls. This hiatus led her to discover a new passion for mountain biking and off-road racing.

A Triathlon Triumph

Keen’s hard work culminated in her world champion title in May. “It was amazing, it’s kind of what I’ve been aiming for for years,” she says. Competing in the cross triathlon discipline, where athletes mountain bike and trail run instead of cycling and running on the road, Keen found her groove.

Looking ahead, Keen is set to compete in the World Triathlon Finals in Pontevedra, Spain, later this month, participating in the super sprint triathlon and aqua bike events. The super sprint triathlon is a short and fast event, while the aqua bike race includes only swim and bike legs.

Beyond Triathlon

Keen’s athletic prowess isn’t confined to triathlons. During her year off from running, she joined the Wellington Titahi Bay open women’s surf boat crew, winning multiple national titles and representing New Zealand. Although she had to give up surf boat rowing due to her relocation to Rotorua and its unique challenges, the experience added another layer to her multifaceted athletic career.

A Message to Aspiring Athletes

For someone who arrived at competitive sports later in life, Keen’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. “Just give it a go, anything is possible really,” she encourages. Keen’s achievements, from a non-sporty background to standing on the world stage, serve as an inspiring reminder that with determination and hard work, no goal is too far-fetched.

“Anything is possible if you put your mind to it, and don’t let anyone tell you you can’t do something—because you can,” Keen asserts.

Join the Journey

Inspired by Angie Keen’s story? Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just starting your fitness journey, there’s a place for you in the world of triathlon. At Te Arawa Swimming we celebrate the spirit of individuals like Keen who push boundaries and redefine limits.

Ready to take the plunge? Sign up. Let’s make waves together!