Shorty Clark knows what it is to travel to destinations throughout New Zealand and indeed the world as he pursues his passion for triathlon. The 60 year old has been competing in the sport since 1995 and has attended 12 ITU World Age Group Championships and hundreds of local and national series events throughout New Zealand.

But on March 23 this year, the triathlon world is set to return to Shortys backyard of the Taranaki for the ITU New Plymouth World Cup Sprint and age group races.

It is no surprise that Shorty is fiercely proud of his home town and province and wants locals and visitors alike to support the event, to reinforce his passion for the event, he works for the naming rights sponsor Port Taranaki and has cheekily asked boss Roy Weaver for a few extra days off to train!

"New Plymouth for me means loyalty to our community, our families and being dedicated to our open, clean and healthy lifestyle. We are also committed to improving our prosperity and that of those who live here in the energy capital of New Zealand.

"I regularly refer to home as having Naki pride and passion. Whether it is triathlon, rugby, netball, cricket or any sporting code, New Plymouth and our people are recognised as being honest, open, genuine and friendly."

Clark is determined to lead the charge when it comes to getting behind the event next month; remembering what is was like when the ITU World Cup left the region back in 2009.

"Its vital and important for the whole community and province to get in behind this race and give it 100% support. Previously we had an ITU World Cup back in 2008 and this generated tons of support, interest, sponsorship and generated spending in the local economy. It was definitely missed when we lost it to an Australian venue.

"The support, vibrancy, crowd interaction and inspiration that is produced from this race is partly what has brought the event back, vindicates the sponsors and makes the complete event viable and attractive to competitors - both the locals and the visitors from outside the province.

"We have the best and most beautiful, natural triathlon playground anywhere in New Zealand right here in New Plymouth, coupled with brilliant training and racing facilities."

Shorty is also an advocate for any newcomers to the sport to give it a go, even as late as now he believes taking part in one of the many age group and corporate events in New Plymouth is realistic.

Continued here:

Shorty Clark opens the door to Taranaki